Bafta apologises for racial slur as review finds 'structural weaknesses'

"We apologise unreservedly to the Black community, for whom the racist language used carries real pain, brutality, and trauma; to the disability community, including people with Tourette Syndrome, for whom this incident has led to unfair judgement, stigma, and distress; and to all our members, guests at the ceremony and those watching at home."

"The review identified a number of structural weaknesses in BAFTA's planning, escalation procedures and crisis coordination arrangements, but found no evidence of malicious intent from those involved in delivering the event."

Bafta issued an unreserved apology to the Black and disability communities after a racial slur was broadcast during the 2026 film awards. An independent review revealed structural weaknesses in Bafta's planning and crisis coordination. The incident involved disability campaigner John Davidson, who shouted during the awards presentation. The review found no malicious intent but acknowledged the pain caused to the affected communities. Bafta accepted the review's conclusions and expressed regret for overshadowing the celebratory nature of the event.

Read at The Independent