Oscar‑nominated production designer Hannah Beachler has spoken out about the controversy at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, where Tourette syndrome activist John Davidson involuntarily used a racial slur multiple times during the ceremony. Beachler, who worked on Sinners, described the incident as “almost impossible” in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
She revealed that one of the remarks was directed at her personally after the show, and another at a Black woman. “Of course we were offended… but our frequency, our spiritual vibration is tuned to a higher level than what happened,” she wrote.
Criticism of Apology
Beachler expressed frustration with the way the incident was addressed, calling the apology offered at the end of the ceremony dismissive. “What made the situation worse was the throw away apology of ‘if you were offended,’” she noted.
Despite the hurt, Beachler emphasized resilience: “I am not steel, this did not bounce off of me, but I exist above it. It can’t take away from who I am as an artist.”
Context of the Incident
Davidson, whose life story inspired the biographical drama I Swear, was present at the BAFTAs to support the film. His involuntary tics included the use of the N‑word, directed at Sinners stars Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience, explaining that Tourette’s syndrome can manifest through involuntary verbal tics and asked for understanding.
Awards and Aftermath
I Swear went on to win Best Actor for Robert Aramayo and Best Casting. Beachler and Monique Champagne were nominated for Best Production Design for Sinners, though the award went to Frankenstein. The BBC has since announced plans to remove the offensive audio from the version of the ceremony available on iPlayer, after initially leaving it in the broadcast.
Moving Forward
Beachler’s comments highlight the complexity of balancing empathy for neurological conditions with the impact of harmful language. Her response underscores the need for sensitivity and accountability in live events, even when circumstances are difficult to navigate.
