SNL Faces Backlash Over Controversial Tourette Sketch

BAFTA host Alan Cumming apologized if the slur 'caused offence' and explained that Davidson had chosen to leave the ceremony.

Davidson later said he was 'deeply mortified' and stressed that his comments 'are not a reflection of my personal beliefs.' 

He had attended the awards representing I Swear, a documentary following his life with Tourette syndrome, which is characterized by involuntary movements or sounds known as tics. 

He has lived with the condition since age 12.

In a subsequent social media statement, Davidson wrote: 'Whilst I will never apologies (sic) for having Tourette syndrome, I will apologize for any pain, upset and misunderstanding that it may create.' He thanked supporters for their 'love, support and solidarity,' describing it as a 'very difficult week.'

The BBC issued an apology for failing to edit out the slur and confirmed it would launch a 'fast-tracked investigation' into what it described as a 'serious mistake.'

BAFTA also issued an 'unreserved apology' for the 'very offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many.'

Davidson told Variety that BAFTA had indicated any swearing would be edited out of the broadcast and questioned why he had been seated near a microphone, saying: 'I have made four documentaries with the BBC in the past, and feel that they should have been aware of what to expect from Tourette's and worked harder to prevent anything that I said … from being included in the broadcast.'

He also revealed he shouted multiple offensive words during the ceremony, not just the racial slur, including an insult directed at Cumming.

At the NAACP Image Awards in California, Lindo addressed the situation publicly for the first time, thanking fans for their 'love and support.' 

Regina Hall and host Deon Cole also referenced the incident during the ceremony.

Davidson, Britain's most high-profile advocate living with Tourette syndrome, has long been open about his symptoms, including coprolalia, which can cause involuntary utterance of socially inappropriate words or phrases. 

Tourette's Action said it was 'incredibly proud' of Davidson and described the backlash surrounding the BAFTA moment as 'deeply saddening.'