Tourette Syndrome campaigner John Davidson has issued a statement to say he is “deeply mortified” if anyone thought his involuntary tic at the Bafta Film Awards was “intentional.”

Sinners stars Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordon were onstage on Sunday (February 22) at London’s Royal Festival Hall to present the prize for visual effects when Davidson involuntarily shouted the n-word.

In a statement to Variety, Davidson said: “I wanted to thank BAFTA and everyone involved in the awards last night for their support and understanding and inviting me to attend the broadcast. I appreciated the announcement to the auditorium in advance of the recording, warning everyone that my tics are involuntary and are not a reflection of my personal beliefs.

“I was heartened by the round of applause that followed this announcement and felt welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be impossible for me. In addition to the announcement by Alan Cumming, the BBC and BAFTA, I can only add that I am, and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning.”

He continued: “I was in attendance to celebrate the film of my life, I Swear, which more than any film or TV documentary, explains the origins, condition, traits and manifestations of Tourette Syndrome.

“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. I chose to leave the auditorium early into the ceremony as I was aware of the distress my tics were causing.”

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