Tourette's campaigner John Davidson defends decision to watch BAFTAs remotely, saying it was his suggestion

Scottish Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson has defended the decision for him to remain in a separate area to the main auditorium at the Scottish BAFTAs, where the film inspired by his life story is up for a string of awards.

Mr Davidson, from Galashiels, said it had been his suggestion to watch the ceremony, in November, remotely.

I Swear, which is based on the life of Mr Davidson, has received seven nominations at the Scottish BAFTAs, including three nominations in the best film actor category.

The film previously won three awards at the UK Baftas, however, the win last February sparked a row after Mr Davidson, who suffers from vocal tics, shouted the N-word as Sinners stars Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the first prize of the evening. The slur was not edited out by the BBC, which broadcast the event.

Bafta said earlier this week it had agreed Mr Davidson will watch the Scottish ceremony in a separate room in the same building with loved ones.

John Davidson attending the 79th British Academy Film Awards (PA)

Mr Davidson said: “To put you all in the picture, I want you all to know that it was my suggestion and choice to be in a separate area whilst the Scottish BAFTAs ceremony is taking place. I will have a live link on a large screen and will experience everything the same as everyone else attending but without the stress and worry about my tics.

“BAFTA have bent over backwards to accommodate me and want me to be a part of the celebrations and enjoy the evening. Although, not everyone with Tourette’s would choose to do it this way but this is my choice to be relaxed and comfortable.”

In a letter sent out to Bafta members on Wednesday, chief executive Jane Millichip and chair Sara Putt said the organisation had “made adjustments” to enable Mr Davidson to attend the awards.

The Bafta Scotland Awards 2026 will take place on 15 November at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central.