Google has apologised after a push notification referencing the recent British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards controversy included the N-word in full.
The notification, which linked to coverage of the incident, reportedly ended with the phrase: “See more on (N-word).” Screenshots of the alert circulated widely on social media, prompting backlash from users.
In a statement to entertainment outlet Deadline, a Google spokesperson said: “We’re very sorry for this mistake. We’ve removed the offensive notification and are working to prevent this from happening again.”
Background: What Happened at the BAFTA Awards
The controversy stems from an on-stage incident during the BAFTA Awards ceremony, where actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award when an attendee shouted the racial slur.
The individual was later identified as Tourette’s activist John Davidson, who said he was “deeply mortified” and clarified that the outburst was not reflective of his personal beliefs. He added that he left the auditorium early after becoming aware of the distress caused.
Following the incident, both BAFTA and the BBC issued apologies. BAFTA condemned the use of “offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many,” and thanked the presenters for their “dignity and professionalism.” The BBC apologised for not editing the word out before broadcasting the ceremony.
Social Media Reaction Intensifies
Google’s notification further amplified the controversy. Several social media users criticised the tech company, especially as the incident occurred during Black History Month.
Reactions ranged from disbelief to accusations that engagement-driven algorithms may have prioritised visibility over sensitivity. Some users questioned whether stronger content filters should have prevented the slur from appearing in the notification.
Ongoing Debate Around Moderation and AI Systems
The episode has sparked broader conversations about automated systems, editorial oversight, and platform accountability in handling sensitive language.
While Google has removed the notification and pledged corrective measures, the incident has added another layer to an already contentious week surrounding the BAFTA Awards broadcast.
