A brief flash of tension flickered between a photographer and Denzel Washington, though not enough to throw the day off script.
The acclaimed actor attended the 2025 Cannes Film Festival to premiere his new film, “Highest 2 Lowest.” Washington was joined by director Spike Lee and rapper A$AP Rocky. But the ceremonious moment briefly soured when an unnamed photographer got a little too familiar with the Oscar-winner.
The encounter, which was captured in a clip shared by the New York Post on May 19, shows a sea of photographers — one of whom got beside himself, reaching out to touch Washington, presumably to get his attention. Washington is seen admonishing the man, who nonetheless makes a second attempt.
“Stop it!” Washington snapped, moving the photographer’s hand away — visibly frustrated by the gall of the gesture.
Now, days later, a representative for Washington has addressed the incident. In a statement obtained by E! News, shared on Tuesday, the rep offered insight into how the moment affected the actor’s evening.
“It was a great evening,” the representative told the outlet — and, from the looks of it, one that wasn’t so easily derailed.
During the screening of the film, Washington was honored with a “special gift” by the festival to recognize his contributions to cinema. A montage of his career highlights played before he was formally presented with the Palme d’Or d’Honneur — a lifetime achievement award bestowed upon artists who have shaped the art form itself.