Hollywood legend Denzel Washington found himself at the center of media attention for more than just his latest film this week, after a tense encounter with a photographer during the Cannes Film Festival stirred strong reactions online and within the film community.
The Incident on the Red Carpet
While walking the red carpet at the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee and co-starring A$AP Rocky, Washington was approached by a photographer who reportedly touched his arm in an attempt to capture his attention. The Oscar-winning actor immediately pushed the hand away and firmly told the photographer to stop, in what lip-readers have interpreted as the warning: “Never put your hands on me again.”
Video footage of the exchange quickly went viral, sparking a debate about personal boundaries and the behavior of media professionals at high-profile events.
Past Tensions Resurface
This is not the first time Denzel Washington has made headlines for standing his ground with the paparazzi. In October 2024, he was involved in a verbal confrontation with photographers outside the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where he accused them of breaking a promise to wait until the end of an event for photos. That incident, too, drew a mix of criticism and support from fans and media commentators.
No-Show at Press Conference
Washington did not attend the official press conference for Highest 2 Lowest following the red carpet appearance, prompting speculation. His publicist later clarified that the actor’s absence was due to commitments with the Broadway production of Othello, in which he stars opposite Jake Gyllenhaal, not the red carpet incident.
A Night of Contrasts
Despite the tension, the evening held a celebratory moment as Spike Lee surprised Washington with an honorary Palme d’Or in recognition of his decades-long career and their iconic collaborations, including Malcolm X and Inside Man. The gesture was met with standing ovations and underscored Washington’s enduring impact on global cinema.
A Message About Respect
The confrontation serves as a powerful reminder of the need for mutual respect in public and professional spaces, even at glamorous events like Cannes. Washington’s reaction may have seemed strong to some, but it highlighted a fundamental boundary: no one, regardless of fame or context, should be touched without consent.
As one of Hollywood’s most respected figures, Denzel Washington continues to demand the same dignity he brings to every performance — both on and off screen.
