Susanna Reid has faced backlash from ITV viewers after her remarks on Good Morning Britain regarding a racial slur shouted during the BAFTA Film Awards. The incident occurred when Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage, and the slur was heard from John Davidson, a Tourette’s campaigner whose life story was featured in the nominated biopic I Swear.
During Monday’s broadcast, Reid, 55, and co-host Ed Balls, 58, discussed the moment. Reid said the language was ‘completely unacceptable’ and questioned why a racial slur should ever be accepted or brushed away. She argued that an apology was vital, while Balls countered that apologising for someone’s disability was not fair, as the tics are involuntary.
BAFTA host Alan Cumming had apologised to the audience, explaining that the outburst was due to Tourette syndrome and that the person had no control over their language. A BBC spokesperson also apologised for any offence caused by the involuntary tics.
Viewers criticised Reid on social media, with one asking if an apology was required regardless of the source, and another calling her remarks ‘totally uncaring, stupid and dismissive’. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about disability, involuntary actions, and accountability for offensive language.
