The BBC has launched a fast-track investigation into how a racial slur broadcast during its coverage of the Bafta film awards was not edited out. Tim Davie, the outgoing director general, has instructed the corporation's executive complaints unit to carry out the inquiry, which the BBC described as a “serious mistake”.
The slur was shouted by Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson as Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the award for special visual effects on Sunday. The broadcast containing the slur remained on iPlayer for 15 hours before being removed and edited, despite clips circulating widely on social media.
Culture secretary Lisa Nandy said the broadcast was “completely unacceptable and harmful” and welcomed the investigation. Caroline Dinenage, Conservative chair of the Commons culture, media and sport committee, has written to Davie demanding answers, noting previous concerns about offensive language, including antisemitic chanting during BBC Glastonbury coverage last year.
A breakdown in communication between Bafta, broadcasters in the hall, and producers editing coverage from a production truck is believed to be responsible. Producers caught some of Davidson's tics, including another use of the N-word, but confusion over what had been heard and edited out likely led to the error.
Davidson, who was present due to the success of the biopic I Swear, said he felt “deeply mortified” and questioned why he was seated near a microphone. He had been reassured by Bafta that any offensive tics would be removed. The BBC was aware of Davidson's participation, and external producers Penny Lane Entertainment were involved in preparations.
Some at the BBC view this as distinct from the Glastonbury row, where a decision was made not to edit a live chant. Bafta has announced its own comprehensive review of the awards ceremony.
