Denzel Washington Has Tense Exchange With Photographer At Cannes Event

Denzel Washington once said, “I’m leaving here with something,” but surely he had no plans to leave the 2025 Cannes Film Festival with a tense red carpet exchange. The beloved actor — who usually keeps it cool and calm — was caught in a tense moment with an overly handsy photographer during the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest, his new film co-starring A$AP Rocky.

In clips that have since gone viral, Denzel was mid-conversation with his longtime collaborator Spike Lee and Rocky when a photog decided he needed the Training Day actor’s attention, physically reaching to grab his arm. Denzel immediately turned to confront the man about the gesture before having to put some bass in his voice.

As the 70-year-old turned to walk away, the photographer grabbed him yet again, prompting the icon to yank his arm away, point his finger in the photog’s face, and shout “Stop it!” Possibly embarrassed or determined to piss Denzel off some more, the photog laughed in the moment.

Prior to the premiere, the legendary actor was honored with the prestigious Palme d’Or award, one of the highest recognitions given at the Cannes Film Festival. And while the prior confrontation may have made waves online, it was Denzel’s acceptance speech that reminded everyone why he remains Hollywood royalty.

“This is a total surprise for me so I’m a little emotional. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all,” he told the crowd, expressing his deep gratitude. “To be here once again in Cannes — 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.” He also gave love to Spike Lee, calling him his “brother from another mother.”