Actor Delroy Lindo Praised with Standing Ovation for Reaction to Racial Slur Incident at BAFTAs
**Delroy Lindo Secures Standing Ovation at NAACP Image Awards Following BAFTAs Controversy Remarks**
In a significant moment at the NAACP Image Awards on February 28, 2026, actor Delroy Lindo was met with a standing ovation after addressing a contentious event that took place at the BAFTAs earlier that month. On February 22, during the BAFTA event, a racial slur was yelled from the audience while Lindo and his co-star Michael B. Jordan were presenting an award. The interruption came from John Davidson, a Scottish activist with Tourette syndrome, which can lead to involuntary vocal tics.
Davidson was attending the ceremony representing the BAFTA-nominated film *I Swear*, which reflects his lived experiences with Tourette syndrome. Despite earlier warnings to attendees about the potential for involuntary outbursts related to his condition, the audience was startled when he unexpectedly shouted the n-word during the presentation by Lindo and Jordan.
In the aftermath of the ceremony, Lindo and Jordan received overwhelming support from fans and fellow artists. Joined by *Sinners* director Ryan Coogler on stage at the NAACP Image Awards, Lindo expressed his appreciation for the encouragement they had received. “We are grateful for all the support and love that we have been given in the wake of what transpired last weekend,” he stated. “It means so much to us. It is a privilege to stand here among our people this evening, surrounded by so many who have shown us such incredible support.” He further added, “It’s a classic instance of something that could have been very negative turning into something quite positive.”
The BBC and BAFTA extended their apologies, acknowledging that the offensive language had been included in the delayed broadcast by oversight. They clarified that the mistake was unintentional and vowed to learn from the experience. “We take full accountability for placing our guests in a very challenging situation, and we apologize to everyone,” a BAFTA representative commented. “We will learn from this, ensuring inclusion remains central to all our operations, upholding our belief in film and storytelling as a vital means for fostering compassion and understanding.”
John Davidson also reached out to the *Sinners* team to offer his apologies for the incident, recognizing the distress caused by his involuntary outburst. He shared the intense guilt and shame he feels when such occurrences happen due to his condition.
This incident underscores the difficulties faced by individuals with Tourette syndrome and the need for understanding and empathy. Delroy Lindo’s reaction and the support he garnered highlight how inclusivity and compassion can turn a challenging situation into a chance for constructive dialogue and understanding.