GB News presenter Michelle Dewberry has hit back at critics targeting Tourette’s syndrome campaigner John Davidson following his involuntary outbursts at Sunday evening’s Baftas.
Writing on X, Michelle expressed disbelief at the volume of abuse directed at Mr Davidson, describing the situation as “deeply unfortunate” whilst acknowledging that many viewers were upset.
“It clearly wasn’t deliberate, nor intended nor could it be controlled,” she stated.
The broadcaster expressed concern for Mr Davidson’s wellbeing, suggesting the incident was likely “his worst nightmare” and that he probably feels dreadful about what occurred.
I can not believe the amount of people abusing John Davidson today.
What happened was deeply unfortunate and of course I know many people have been upset by it, which is regrettable.
But – It clearly wasn’t deliberate, nor intended nor could it be controlled.
I really hope… pic.twitter.com/TBbgGZggDa
— Michelle Dewberry (@MichelleDewbs) February 23, 2026
Michelle reserved particular criticism for those attacking the disabled campaigner, writing: “Shame on all of you sticking the boot in to a disabled man.
“Most of you of course from the ‘be kind’ brigade (when we all know, you are anything but).”
Mr Davidson, who inspired the Bafta-nominated film I Swear, was present at the Royal Festival Hall ceremony.
The campaigner, diagnosed with the condition at 25 after symptoms first emerged when he was 12, experiences tics and involuntary verbal outbursts that frequently include profanity.
John Davidson experiences involuntary vocal tics as a result of his condition | GETTY
Throughout the evening, several outbursts were audible to attendees, including the Prince and Princess of Wales.
During Bafta chair Sara Putt’s introductory remarks, Mr Davidson shouted “shut the f*** up,” whilst the directors of Arco received their best children’s and family film award to cries of “f*** you.”
The most controversial moment came when Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo took to the stage to present the best visual effects prize to Avatar: Fire and Ash, at which point Mr Davidson shouted the n-word.
Michelle shared a TikTok video from a black woman with Tourette’s syndrome, posting under the username sh4ysgrwm, who offered her perspective on the controversy.
Michelle Dewberry slammed those criticising John Davidson
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GB NEWSMichelle wrote: “This lady explains it well.”
The TikTok user began: “I am seeing a lot of ‘Oh my God, during Black History Month?’ Tourette’s Syndrome’s not based on a month.”
She explained that she herself has the n-word as a tic, along with other slurs, but emphasised this does not mean she uses such language intentionally or can control what she says.
“A tic is when your neurons misfire. You think that you can seriously f***ing control a neuron misfiring? I’ve never seen a human do that,” she said.
This brought (happy) tears to my eyes.
I love to see fellow Hull folk thrive.
Congrats Robert Aramayo. May you go from strength to strength 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/zEjttO6rKO
— Michelle Dewberry (@MichelleDewbs) February 23, 2026
The TikTok user argued that while being offended is acceptable, criticising people with Tourette’s for involuntary tics constitutes ableism.
Ceremony host Alan Cumming addressed the audience directly, acknowledging the strong language heard throughout the evening.
“This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience,” he told those gathered. “Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”
Mr Cumming later added: “Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s Syndrome has no control over their language. We apologise if you are offended tonight.”
The outbursts ceased during the second half of proceedings after Mr Davidson departed the venue. According to reports, he left of his own volition and was not asked to go.
Prior to the ceremony, a floor manager had informed attendees about Mr Davidson’s presence and the possibility of involuntary noises or movement.
Michelle also posted another tweet about the Baftas, this time congratulating Best Actor winner Robert Aramayo, who was awarded the accolade for portraying Mr Davidson in the film.
Reposting the moment his name was announced as winner, she wrote: “This brought (happy) tears to my eyes. I love to see fellow Hull folk thrive.
“Congrats Robert Aramayo. May you go from strength to strength.”
