Denzel Washington Snaps at Photographer During Cannes Red Carpet

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2025 saw me making waves at the Cannes Film Festival with an unforgettable moment on the red carpet. During the premiere of my film, Highest 2 Lowest, co-starring A$AP Rocky, a photographer got a little too close for comfort, leading to a heated exchange between us.

During the confrontation, we’ll discuss how things unfolded, Washington’s response, and the unexpected tribute he received shortly after.

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Here’s a recap of the altercation, Washington’s reaction, followed by the shocking accolade he was granted immediately afterwards.

Denzel Washington confronts photographer at Cannes red carpet

On May 19, 2025, Denzel Washington found himself in a passionate dispute with a photographer during the grand event of the Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet.

The event transpired during the debut of the film “Highest 2 Lowest,” directed by Spike Lee, featuring Washington and A$AP Rocky. As per the video evidence, there was an altercation between Washington and a photographer who seemed to touch his arm while conversing with Lee. Washington gestured towards the man and kept shouting, “Cut it out!” repeatedly.

When Washington prepared to leave, the photographer once more seized his sleeve. In reaction, the performer firmly disengaged himself and persisted with his demand, “Cease! Cease!” It was evident that other photographers were chuckling during this interaction. To date, Washington’s representatives have refrained from commenting on this incident.

Following the unexpected event, Denzel Washington was bestowed an honorary Palme d’Or award before the movie screening at Cannes Film Festival. Thierry Frémaux, the festival’s head, expressed to the audience, “Today is truly unique. Denzel, your presence here inspires us to create something extraordinary for you… It serves as a token of our admiration, your contributions to cinema.” (Adapted from Deadline.)

At the event where Spike Lee handed out an award for Highest 2 Lowest, he expressed warmly, “That guy standing next to me is my brother. I truly adore him. It’s wonderful that you’re here among those who appreciate him just as much.” Moved by this unexpected moment, Washington replied, “I find myself overwhelmed, so I’m feeling quite emotional. From the depths of my heart, I express my gratitude to each and every one of you.

High and Low, a 1963 movie directed by Akira Kurosawa, gets an English remake titled Highest 2 Lowest. This new version is based on the novel King’s Ransom. The film will hit theaters on August 22, and it will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting from September.

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2025-05-20 10:10