BBC Under Scrutiny: Racial Slur Incident at BAFTA Sparks Investigation

The BBC is investigating after a racial slur wasn't edited out of its BAFTA Awards broadcast. The offensive word was shouted by John Davidson, a guest with Tourette syndrome. The incident brought apologies from both the BBC and BAFTA to actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 25-02-2026 22:13 IST | Created: 25-02-2026 22:13 IST
BBC Under Scrutiny: Racial Slur Incident at BAFTA Sparks Investigation
This image is AI-generated and does not depict any real-life event or location. It is a fictional representation created for illustrative purposes only.

The BBC has come under fire after an unedited racial slur was aired during its broadcast of Britain's prestigious BAFTA Awards. An investigation has been launched to address the oversight that shocked viewers.

During the awards ceremony, John Davidson, a guest with Tourette syndrome, involuntarily shouted the offensive language while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting. The slur went unedited when the show was streamed later, causing significant backlash.

The BBC swiftly responded to the incident, acknowledging the mistake and initiating a fast-tracked investigation led by the Executive Complaints Unit. Simultaneously, BAFTA has apologized to the offended actors and pledged to ensure such mishaps do not recur.

(With inputs from agencies.)

Give Feedback