Bafta Faces Mounting Criticism Over N-Word Incident at Awards Ceremony
Warner Bros executives reacted swiftly after the N-word was shouted during the Bafta awards on Sunday night, yet their concerns were reportedly disregarded when the moment aired unedited on television. A source close to the studio has revealed that officials immediately contacted Bafta following the incident, which occurred as actors Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the award for best visual effects.
Studio Assurances and Broadcast Oversight
The verbal tic came from Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson, prompting Warner Bros to request removal of the slur from the telecast. The source confirmed that Bafta assured the studio the request would be forwarded to the BBC, which broadcasts the ceremony on BBC One after a two-hour delay. Despite this assurance, the word was not edited out, leading to widespread outrage.
Warner Bros, behind films such as Sinners and One Battle After Another, maintained close communication with Bafta throughout the evening and into Monday morning. In response to inquiries, a BBC spokesperson declined to add to their earlier apology, issued on Monday, for the editing oversight.
Google Apologises for AI-Generated Prompt
In a related development, Google has expressed deep regret for an AI-generated notification that accompanied a link to an article about the incident, inviting users to "See more on" the N-word. A company spokesperson stated, "We are deeply sorry for this mistake. We've removed the offensive notification and are working to prevent this from happening again."
Criticism of Editing and Broadcast Delay
Many have questioned why editors missed the slur, given the audible reaction in the room and subsequent social media buzz. While other inappropriate language was cut, this moment slipped through. The BBC later issued a fresh apology and uploaded an edited version to its website.
The lengthy delay between the live ceremony and broadcast has drawn increased criticism, as audiences often know winners beforehand. This gap is intended to allow removal of unsuitable content, especially during pre-watershed transmission times.
Resignations and Political Outrage
Bafta released a statement taking full responsibility for placing guests in a difficult situation and apologising unreservedly to Jordan and Lindo for their professionalism. However, apologies have not quelled the backlash.
On Tuesday, Bafta judge Jonte Richardson resigned over what he called the "utterly unforgivable" handling of the incident. The New Black Film Collective and MP Dawn Butler joined Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch in condemning the BBC's failure to edit the word, amplifying calls for accountability.
The Guardian has approached Bafta for further comment as the controversy continues to unfold.
