A black actor from the film I Swear has defended Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson after he shouted the N-word during the British Academy Film Awards ceremony in London. Davidson, whose life story inspired the film, has a severe form of Tourette syndrome that includes coprolalia, a condition that causes involuntary use of socially inappropriate words. The outburst occurred while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award, prompting an on-air apology from host Alan Cumming before Davidson left the event early.

Thierry Mabonga, who played Davidson’s lawyer in the film, said the incident highlights the need for greater awareness about Tourette syndrome. He argued that Davidson cannot control his verbal tics and that the film was made to educate the public about the condition. Tourette’s Action also stressed that such language is neurological and not a reflection of a person’s beliefs or character.

The British Broadcasting Corporation faced criticism for airing the slur despite a broadcast delay, later admitting it should have been edited out and removing the ceremony from its streaming service. The decision drew further backlash after it emerged that a separate acceptance speech referencing 'Free Palestine' had been edited from the same broadcast. Politicians, celebrities and viewers have called for clearer explanations and apologies, particularly to the actors who were subjected to the slur.