Delroy Lindo Returns to Public Stage at NAACP Image Awards Following BAFTA Controversy
Delroy Lindo stepped onto the stage at the NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles this Saturday, marking his first public event since a distressing incident at the BAFTAs where a guest with Tourette's syndrome shouted a racial slur. Lindo and his Sinners co-star Michael B. Jordan were presenting at the BAFTAs last weekend when John Davidson, whose life inspired the BAFTA-nominated film I Swear, involuntarily yelled the N-word at them during the ceremony at London's Royal Festival Hall.
Lindo Criticizes BAFTA's Response and Expresses Gratitude
Lindo later expressed disappointment with BAFTA for not addressing the incident with him after the event, stating he wished "someone from BAFTA spoke to us afterward." Nearly a week later, Lindo—who has gained acclaim for his role as a blues musician in Sinners—returned to the spotlight. He appeared onstage with Sinners director Ryan Coogler at the NAACP's celebration of black talent, where Lindo thanked the community for their support.
"We appreciate all of the support and love that we have been shown in the aftermath of what happened last weekend," Lindo said. He continued, "It means a lot to us. It is an honor to be here amongst our people this evening, amongst so many people who've shown us such incredible support. And it's a classic case of something that could've been very negative becoming very positive. Thank you so much for the support." Lindo and Coogler received a standing ovation, with Lindo's words met with cheers and applause.
BAFTA Incident and Broader Reactions
The BAFTAs controversy was referenced earlier in the evening by host Deon Cole, who joked in his monologue about white men with Tourette's "reading the room" and doubling up on medication. During the festivities, Lindo was seen posing joyfully with Jordan, and he walked the red carpet with his wife Nashormeh, later winning best supporting actor in a movie at the NAACP Awards.
When Davidson's outburst occurred, Lindo and Jordan did not react visibly, while host Alan Cumming apologized if offense was caused, and Davidson left the ceremony early. The slur was broadcast to millions on BBC One, sparking backlash, including from Oscar winner Jamie Foxx, who called it "unacceptable." Lindo reserved criticism for BAFTA, telling Vanity Fair that he and Jordan "did what we had to do" but wished for post-event communication.
Defense of Davidson and BBC Editing Controversy
Scottish actor Thierry Mabonga, who portrayed Davidson's lawyer in I Swear, defended Davidson, suggesting actors should have been warned about his condition, which includes coprolalia—involuntary inappropriate speech. Mabonga emphasized that tics are not reflective of a person's beliefs. Despite a two-hour delay, the BBC aired the slur, later apologizing and removing it from iPlayer, while editing out "Free Palestine" from another acceptance speech, leading to viewer outrage over perceived double standards.
Hannah Beachler, a production designer on Sinners, reported experiencing Davidson's involuntary slurs and criticized the "throw away apology" of "if you were offended." Charity Tourette's Action stated that tics are involuntary and not indicative of character, expressing pride in Davidson. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused the BBC of a "horrible mistake" for not bleeping the slur, calling for an explanation and apologies to Lindo and Jordan.
Broader Context and Awards Highlights
The incident has sparked debate about disability, offense, and media responsibility. At the NAACP Image Awards, Sinners won outstanding motion picture, with Michael B. Jordan winning outstanding actor and other accolades. The ceremony celebrated black talent, with Lindo's appearance symbolizing resilience and community support in the face of adversity.
