BAFTAs 2026 host Alan Cumming, who was born in Scotland, was warned he could be deported for speaking out on trans rights as ‘terrifying’ ICE raids escalate near his New York home
BAFTAs 2026 host Alan Cumming, who hails from Aberfeldy, Scotland, has revealed his fears about potential deportation from the USA following his outspoken views, as operations by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intensify.
Alan, 61, divides his time between the USA and Scotland, but has recently voiced growing unease about his situation in New York.
One incident that sparked Alan’s concern came following his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, where he discussed transgender rights, a topic President Donald Trump has taken a firm stance against, having prohibited transgender individuals from serving in the military during his initial presidency.
The actor and television presenter revealed that following this appearance, those close to him cautioned that his vocal stance could put him at risk of deportation. He shared with the Independent: “[I] did a big rant about trans rights… People around me were like, ‘You’re going to be deported.'”
Deportations have become a central issue across the USA as ICE expands its activities, with ongoing reports emerging about detention conditions.
Discussing his position as an immigrant in the USA last November, Alan, who obtained US citizenship in 2008, described the raids to the Metro as “terrifying” and expressed gratitude that Scotland remains an option for him.
He explained: “I am very lucky that I have another life and another existence in Scotland, and it’s just sort of funny. I’m walking along the street right now in New York, and you wouldn’t know anything was different.
“But this is New York, and yet ICE have been less than a mile away from me right now in Chinatown, taking people off the streets. It’s terrifying.”
Alan, who presents the US version of The Traitors, has not only shared his views on immigration in the USA but has also taken a moment to reflect on his career trajectory and future aspirations.
He has recently expressed a desire for an improved work-life balance, according to The Herald. Answering an audience query during a Q&A session in Scotland, he elaborated: “It’s about constantly having to look after yourself.
“But I am also realising when things are too much….It is in my plan to do less. We have a house near Inverness that is being renovated.
“I have this vision of me baking gluten free scones and warming my bum on my Aga. I want to manifest the chance to do that. “It is so exciting to do lots of things, but it is about balance as well.”
The BAFTA Film Awards are set to take place tonight (February 22nd) and will be aired on BBC One and iPlayer from 7pm.
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