A tense and controversial moment at the 2026 BAFTA Awards is continuing to spark backlash across Hollywood after actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were interrupted onstage by a guest who shouted the N-word.
The incident occurred while Jordan and Lindo were presenting during the ceremony. Midway through their appearance, an audience member shouted the racial slur, creating visible discomfort in the room and quickly igniting conversation online.
The individual was later identified as a Tourette’s advocate whose condition can include involuntary vocal tics. BAFTA officials had reportedly alerted attendees in advance that the guest might make unexpected noises during the show
Jamie Foxx was among the most vocal critics following the broadcast. Taking to social media, the Oscar-winning actor expressed frustration and skepticism about the situation, calling the moment “unacceptable” and suggesting he did not fully accept the explanation that the outburst was involuntary.
In the immediate aftermath, host Alan Cumming addressed the audience, explaining that the outburst was related to Tourette’s syndrome and asking for compassion. However, the incident continued to draw scrutiny, particularly around how the situation was handled in real time.
Delroy Lindo later shared that he wished someone from BAFTA had checked in with him and Jordan following the disruption, highlighting concerns about support for the presenters at the center of the moment.
The BBC has since apologized for allowing the slur to air in its tape-delayed broadcast, saying the segment will be edited in future airings.
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