Topics: Baftas, Michael B. Jordan
John Davidson, the Tourette's activist who yelled a racial slur at Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo while the pair presented an award at the BAFTAs last month, has issued a new statement.
At the awards show just over a week ago, Davidson left proceedings early following an involuntary tics episode as a result of his Tourette's syndrome. The disorder can lead to you making sudden, repetitive sounds or movements, known as tics.
During the BAFTAs, Jordan and Lindo were on stage presenting an award when Davidson shouted the N word, which was caught on camera. He could also be heard yelling 'f*ck you' and 'shut the f*ck up' during other intervals.
Davidson spoke out following the BAFTAs, stating he was 'deeply mortified' by what had played out.
Advert
Now, the Tourette's activist has taken to Facebook to state that he won't be apologizing 'for having' the condition.
He wrote: "I’ve been waiting all week until the dust settles after the weekend at the BAFTAs in London. I would like to thank each and every one of you who have shown love, support and solidarity towards myself and the rest of the Tourette’s Community.
"Your kind words and support have got me through a very difficult week.
"Whilst I will never apologize for having Tourette syndrome, I will apologize for any pain, upset and misunderstanding that it may create."
Davidson went on to say the past seven days have been 'tough' and that the situation has reminded him that more awareness is required 'for such a misunderstood condition'.
"There is still a long way to go and I will keep on keeping on until this is achieved," the statement concluded.
Alan Cumming, host of the show in London, was forced to issue an apology live on stage following the incident.
The presenter said: ""You may have noticed some strong language in the background. This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience.
"Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.
"Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s Syndrome has no control over their language. We apologize if you are offended tonight."
Davidson, meanwhile, stated in a previous statement he had left the auditorium early as he was 'aware of the distress my tics were causing'.
He added in a statement provided to Deadline: "I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and to teach empathy, kindness, and understanding from others, and I will continue to do so."
