The film I Swear received a BAFTA but attracted attention due to a scandal
24 february 2026 в 00:13
The British biographical dramedy «I Swear» was recognized at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards in the category of «Best Actor in a Leading Role», - but the film drew attention in the U.S. for another reason. Viewers noticed that during the awards ceremony, the real-life prototype of the film, John Davidson, involuntarily uttered several lines due to Tourette syndrome. One of these lines contained a racist slur.
The film «I Swear» introduces viewers to John as a teenager when Tourette syndrome was hardly known. Aspiring to become a professional footballer, John begins to experience uncontrollable tics. The film follows his life, showing how he works to raise awareness about Tourette syndrome.
John is portrayed in the film by actor Robert Aramayo.
John is a Tourette syndrome activist from Scotland whose story has inspired several screen projects, including «I Swear». Since the 1980s, he has been a nationally recognized ambassador advocating for the rights of people suffering from this neurological disorder, which causes involuntary tics and movements.
As Tourette syndrome manifests differently in each individual, John’s condition includes tics, coprolalia, echolalia, and sudden body movements, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
While accepting the BAFTA award, Robert praised John for his openness in educational matters, noting that «we still have a lot to learn about Tourette syndrome».
«I especially want to tell people living with Tourette syndrome that public perception helps shape their experience, so, quoting the film, 'they need support and understanding,'» added the actor, known for «Game of Thrones».
The film «I Swear» was first released in British cinemas on October 10, 2025. Its premiere took place at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
For viewers in the U.S., «I Swear» is expected to be available on Netflix on April 24, 2026, according to information from What’s on Netflix
The film «I Swear» introduces viewers to John as a teenager when Tourette syndrome was hardly known. Aspiring to become a professional footballer, John begins to experience uncontrollable tics. The film follows his life, showing how he works to raise awareness about Tourette syndrome.
John is portrayed in the film by actor Robert Aramayo.
John is a Tourette syndrome activist from Scotland whose story has inspired several screen projects, including «I Swear». Since the 1980s, he has been a nationally recognized ambassador advocating for the rights of people suffering from this neurological disorder, which causes involuntary tics and movements.
As Tourette syndrome manifests differently in each individual, John’s condition includes tics, coprolalia, echolalia, and sudden body movements, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
While accepting the BAFTA award, Robert praised John for his openness in educational matters, noting that «we still have a lot to learn about Tourette syndrome».
«I especially want to tell people living with Tourette syndrome that public perception helps shape their experience, so, quoting the film, 'they need support and understanding,'» added the actor, known for «Game of Thrones».
The film «I Swear» was first released in British cinemas on October 10, 2025. Its premiere took place at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
For viewers in the U.S., «I Swear» is expected to be available on Netflix on April 24, 2026, according to information from What’s on Netflix
© Zhinobaeva Margarita
