Denzel Washington shouted at a photographer to “stop it” during a tense exchange at Cannes Film Festival. The incident occurred during one of the most prestigious film events in the world, which annually attracts thousands of industry professionals and media.
The 70-year-old big screen icon appeared at the premiere of his new film Highest 2 Lowest on Monday, May 19, when he seemed to clash with the snappper while walking the red carpet with co-star A$AP Rocky. Cannes red carpet premieres are notorious for their strict protocols and security measures.
He appeared to give the photographer a telling off for tapping him on the arm, although the man was smiling and laughing during the exchange. Personal space violations are a common issue for celebrities at high-profile events.
He was then seen grabbing Washington’s arm again, and the furious star flung his hand away. Video of the interaction quickly circulated on social media platforms shortly after the incident.
The Training Day actor was heard shouting “Stop it, stop it” as he pointed directly at the photographer, before storming off. Washington, who has attended Cannes numerous times throughout his career, is normally known for his composed public demeanor.
The evening improved for Washington — who had flown to France from New York on his day off during a production of Othello — after the exchange, as director Spike Lee surprised him with an honorary Palme d’Or award. This prestigious recognition has been awarded to only a select group of film industry professionals in the festival’s history.
“This is a total surprise for me, I’m so emotional. It’s a great opportunity to collaborate with my brother once again, brother from another mother, and to be here once again in Cannes,” he admitted. “We’re a very privileged group in this room that we get to make movies and wear tuxedos and nice clothes and dress up and get paid for it as well. We’re just blessed beyond measure. I’m blessed beyond measure. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all.” Washington’s emotional speech received warm applause from the assembled audience.
Highest 2 Lowest is the fifth time Denzel and Spike have worked together, and their first since Inside Man in 2006. Their creative partnership has spanned several decades, beginning with Mo’ Better Blues and including critically acclaimed works like Malcolm X.
The movie received a standing ovation at Cannes, and it’s said Washington had a “great” night despite the earlier drama with the photographer. The film has already generated significant buzz following its premiere.
“It was a great evening,” his representative told PEOPLE magazine. Critics have highlighted Washington’s performance as particularly noteworthy in early reviews.
Washington has enjoyed a hugely successful career in the film business, but he recently insisted he remains more closely connected to his roots in Mount Vernon than to Hollywood. His career includes multiple Academy Awards and numerous other accolades.
“What’s the definition of a Hollywood actor? Myself, I’m from Mount Vernon, so I’m a ‘Mount Vernon actor.’ I don’t know what ‘Hollywood’ means,” he said on “CBS Sunday Morning” in March. Washington has maintained strong connections to his hometown throughout his career.
Washington also revealed that he sees himself as “a stage actor who does film.” Washington’s theatrical background includes extensive training and numerous acclaimed stage performances.
“It’s not the other way around. I did stage first. I learned how to act on stage, not on film,” the star explained. His current theater run as Othello marks his return to Shakespeare after his celebrated performance in Fences on Broadway.
The Cannes incident highlights the ongoing tension between celebrities and photographers at high-profile events, where boundaries are often tested in the pursuit of memorable images. Festival organizers have implemented various press protocols over the years to balance media access with celebrity comfort.
Despite the brief confrontation, Washington’s Cannes appearance will likely be remembered more for his surprise Palme d’Or honor, which celebrates his exceptional contribution to cinema. The award joins his extensive collection of recognitions from a career spanning over four decades in both film and theater.
