Denzel Washington was involved in a heated confrontation with a photographer on the red carpet at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. The incident took place during the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest/em Washington’s latest collaboration with director Spike Lee. As Washington posed for photos, a photographer reportedly tapped him on the arm in an attempt to get his attention. The actor immediately turned and warned, “Don’t touch me.” Despite the warning, the photographer grabbed his arm again, prompting Washington to shove the hand away and say sternly, “Stop it!

Lip-reading expert Jeremy Freeman later confirmed that Washington told the man, “Never put your hands on me again,” clearly indicating his discomfort. The situation escalated enough that Washington decided to skip a scheduled press event the following day, surprising media and fans alike

Despite the confrontation, the evening wasn’t without celebration. Washington was honored with a surprise Palme d’Or for lifetime achievement, presented by Spike Lee. This marked a significant moment in Washington’s illustrious career and balanced the otherwise tense night

The incident drew parallels to a similar situation earlier in the festival involving singer Kelly Rowland, who was rushed off the carpet by a security guard, leading to her viral exchange. Both moments sparked broader discussions about how celebrities, particularly Black stars, are treated at high-profile international events like Cannes.

Washington’s new film, Highest 2 Lowest, is a modern adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low and is scheduled to hit theaters on August 22, 2025, followed by a streaming release on Apple TV+ in early September. While the red carpet drama made headlines, the film’s premiere and Washington’s recognition underscored his ongoing influence and relevance in the film industry.

For a video of the incident, you can watch it here: