Denzel Washington knows how to command a room—and a red carpet. But at the Cannes Film Festival, the Oscar-winning actor, 70, had a moment that caught everyone off guard when he clashed with a photographer in a tense exchange at the premiere of his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest.
Washington, known for his composed demeanor, was seen pointing his finger at a photographer, delivering a stern warning after being tapped on the arm. Lip-reading experts later revealed his exact words: “Never put your hands on me again.” But despite his firm stance, the photographer, flashing an odd grin, continued engaging with the Hollywood icon, asking, “Can I take a picture?”
The exchange quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the festival, with onlookers debating whether Washington’s frustration was justified or simply another chapter in his long history of tense interactions with fans and photographers alike.
Despite the heated moment, Washington’s evening took a turn for the extraordinary when he was surprised with an honorary Palme d’Or award by director Spike Lee. The unexpected tribute celebrated Washington’s legendary contributions to cinema, and as the two longtime collaborators embraced on stage, the earlier tension melted away.
“This is my brother right here,” Spike Lee declared as he handed over the prize. Clearly caught off guard, Washington replied, “This is a total surprise for me!”
Washington’s presence at Cannes almost didn’t happen—festival organizers had to adjust their scheduling to accommodate his visit, which fell on his lone off-day while performing Othello in New York.
After walking the red carpet alongside A$AP Rocky, his co-star in Highest 2 Lowest, Washington showed no signs of jet lag, posing for photos and relishing in the moment.
Hollywood’s Most Intense Stare-Downs
For longtime fans, Washington’s red carpet moment was far from unprecedented. The actor has had a string of intense interactions with autograph hunters and photographers over the years, including a viral heated exchange with fans in New York City last October.
Whether it’s offering deep wisdom, demanding respect, or setting firm boundaries, one thing remains certain: Denzel Washington never shies away from the moment.
With Highest 2 Lowest—a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 classic High and Low—slated for release on August 22, followed by streaming on Apple TV+ in September, Washington’s presence will remain firmly in the spotlight.
