Double Bafta Winner Robert Aramayo Calls for Compassion Towards Tourette's Syndrome
Robert Aramayo, the acclaimed actor who secured both the Bafta for best actor and the EE Rising Star Award, has made a heartfelt plea for society to extend grace and understanding towards Tourette's syndrome. The 33-year-old star, who portrayed Tourette's campaigner John Davidson in the biographical film I Swear, spoke out following a controversial incident at the Bafta ceremony where Davidson, an invited guest, shouted a racial slur during a presentation.
Incident at the Baftas Sparks Dialogue
During the awards show, Davidson's outburst occurred as actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting the award for special visual effects. The slur was audible through microphones in the audience, prompting a brief pause before the presenters continued. Host Alan Cumming addressed the situation, reminding attendees that Davidson had no control over his tics due to Tourette's syndrome, a condition characterized by involuntary sounds or movements. Cumming emphasized the need for a respectful environment, acknowledging that such language can be a manifestation of the syndrome for some individuals.
As per the NHS, Tourette's involves sudden, repetitive tics, which in Davidson's case include swearing. The BBC's decision to retain the incident in the broadcast edit ignited online debate, with opinions divided between sympathy for the misunderstood condition and criticism of the offensive language used.
Aramayo's Emotional Appeal for Education
In the winners' press room, an emotional Aramayo, who had teared up during his best actor acceptance, highlighted the importance of I Swear in shedding light on Tourette's. I'm just really happy that I Swear has shone a spotlight on something that is really, really misunderstood, he stated. Aramayo stressed that more education is needed about the syndrome's complexities and how society can offer support.
Reflecting on his role, Aramayo noted that learning about Tourette's was the most eye-opening aspect of the project. It's complicated and complex and it requires us to have grace, he explained. He further elaborated that tics are not always visible, and many individuals with Tourette's live without others realizing their condition, challenging common misconceptions.
Background on the Campaigner and Ceremony
John Davidson, diagnosed with Tourette's at age 25 and awarded an MBE in 2019, was also heard shouting other phrases during the event, including during a speech by Bafta chair Sara Putt and housekeeping instructions. He reportedly left the ceremony voluntarily in the second half, with no further outbursts. Variety reported that Bafta would under no circumstances ask an invited guest to leave, underscoring the organization's commitment to inclusivity.
Cumming made an additional statement during the show, apologizing for any offense while reiterating that Tourette's is a disability with involuntary tics. The incident has spurred broader conversations about disability awareness and media representation in the entertainment industry.
Aramayo's Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations
Beyond the Tourette's discussion, Aramayo shared his gratitude for connecting with fellow nominee Ethan Hawke, whom he mentioned in his acceptance speech for valuable advice during their time at Julliard. He praised Hawke as amazing and expressed hope for future collaboration. The actor's double win marks a significant milestone in his career, following his role in The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power.
The 2026 Bafta winners included notable achievements such as One Battle After Another for best film and Jessie Buckley for leading actress in Hamnet. This event not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also highlighted important social issues, with Aramayo's advocacy serving as a poignant reminder of the power of film to foster understanding and empathy towards neurological conditions like Tourette's syndrome.
