Tensions Rise at Cannes as Denzel Washington Confronts Photographer
The Cannes premiere of Highest 2 Lowest took a dramatic turn when Denzel Washington stopped mid-red carpet to confront a photographer.
According to reports, the actor was walking with co-star A$AP Rocky on May 19 when a photographer tugged on his suit, prompting Washington to call him out. Lip reader Jeremy Freeman told the Daily Mail Washington said: “Never put your hands on me again.” He then added, “I’m talking to you, stop, all right.”
The photographer allegedly responded with “not allowed” and laughed before repeating the action and asking to take a picture. Washington, visibly frustrated, said: “Stop. I mean it.”
The incident quickly went viral online, with many defending Washington’s reaction. One user wrote: “He clearly said ‘don’t ever put your hands on me again’ and [the photographer] did it again to provoke him.”
Despite the tense moment, Washington was later honored with a surprise honorary Palme d’Or for his cinematic legacy. Visibly moved, he said: “I’m blessed beyond measure.”