Warner Bros. Urged BAFTA to Cut N-Word From ‘Sinners’ BAFTA Awards Broadcast

Warner Bros. reportedly tried to stop a racial slur from airing during the BAFTA Film Awards broadcast but was unsuccessful. The controversy began Sunday night when an offensive word was heard during the ceremony while “Sinners” actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage presenting an award.

A source with direct knowledge of the situation said a Tourette’s campaigner, John Davidson, made an involuntary outburst that included the N-word. Studio executives from Warner Bros. quickly contacted BAFTA after the moment happened inside the venue. They asked that the word be removed from the BBC’s delayed broadcast scheduled for later that evening.

The same source told Variety that Warner Bros. remained in communication with BAFTA throughout the night and even met with representatives the next day. The studio was reportedly assured that the request to edit the moment had been passed along.

Despite this, the slur was not removed from the final broadcast. Viewers heard it when the show aired, which led to strong backlash online. The BBC later issued an apology.

The network claimed that producers did not understand what had been said until after the program aired. However, that explanation has been questioned following the source’s account shared with Variety. Some viewers have also asked how a comment clearly heard in the room was not flagged to those managing the broadcast.

As criticism grew, BAFTA released a public statement late Monday. The organization said it accepted “full responsibility” and admitted it had placed its guests in a difficult position. BAFTA added that it wanted to “apologise unreservedly” to Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. The statement also said, “We would like to thank Michael and Delroy for their incredible dignity and professionalism.”

The situation has raised wider questions about communication between event organizers and broadcasters. It has also led to debate about how quickly sensitive moments should be handled during live or delayed broadcasts.

This incident shows how important fast and clear communication is during major live events. When something serious happens, action needs to follow right away. What do you think about how this was handled? Share your thoughts in the comments.