Michael B Jordan 'Repulsed' by Bafta Racial Slur Outburst
American actor Michael B Jordan was left disgusted and repulsed after being subjected to a racial slur while presenting at the Bafta Awards in London. The incident occurred on Sunday night at the Royal Festival Hall, where Jordan, 39, and his co-star Delroy Lindo were handing out the best visual effects award to Avatar: Fire and Ash.
Shocking Moment Prompts Broadcast Removal
During the presentation, Tourette's campaigner John Davidson was heard shouting the N-word, causing gasps across the audience. In response, the BBC removed the entire awards ceremony broadcast from iPlayer after facing criticism for not editing out the moment. This decision came despite the broadcaster having cut a director's plea to 'Free Palestine' earlier in the show.
A source close to Jordan told Metro that the actor was repulsed by the outburst, noting his extensive research into racism for his role in the film Sinners. Michael had to do extensive research into the horrific psychological effects of racism to prepare for Sinners so was disgusted, repulsed and grossed out by John's outburst, the source explained.
Apologies and Aftermath
Following the incident, Davidson issued an apology, stating he was deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning. Bafta host Alan Cumming also addressed the outburst during the ceremony, thanking attendees for their understanding.
The BBC later issued a direct apology to Jordan and Lindo, acknowledging the harm and trauma caused by the offensive language. We want to acknowledge the harm this has caused, address what happened and apologise to all, the statement to The Hollywood Reporter read. It praised Jordan and Lindo for their dignity and professionalism.
Context and Impact
Jordan's film Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler, explores themes of racism in the Jim Crow South. The source highlighted that the incident reminded Jordan of the ongoing work needed to combat racism. He read works by savants like Joy DeGruy Leary to prepare for the role, so the incident really reminded him about how much work has to be done to drive racism underground, they said.
Despite the upset, Jordan is focusing on his upcoming projects, including The Thomas Crown Affair. The Bafta ceremony also saw Sinners become the most-decorated movie from a Black director in the show's history, winning multiple awards.
This event underscores broader issues of inclusion and sensitivity in live broadcasting, with the BBC vowing to learn from the incident and prioritise empathy in its future productions.
