Denzel Washington stands his ground at Cannes after red carpet clash with photographer

Denzel Washington made headlines at the Cannes Film Festival not just for his new movie, but for a tense moment with a photographer who crossed the line — literally.

The Cannes Film Festival is known for its glitz, glamour, and elegant red carpet moments. But on May 19, things took an unexpected turn during the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest when Denzel Washington, walking alongside co-star A$AP Rocky, was reportedly grabbed by a photographer.

According to several media outlets, a photographer tugged on Washington’s suit jacket — a move that clearly didn’t sit well with the two-time Oscar winner. Video of the incident quickly went viral, showing Washington visibly upset as he confronted the man.

Lip-reading expert Jeremy Freeman, brought in by the Daily Mail, claims Washington said:
“Hey, one – one more time, stop. Let me tell you – stop, stop – never put your hands on me again.”

Washington then pointed at the photographer, who reportedly smiled in response. That reaction only made things worse.

“I’m talking to you, stop, all right,” Washington said firmly, according to Freeman.

The situation escalated further when the same photographer allegedly grabbed at the actor again and asked, “Can I take a picture?” Washington’s response: “Stop, stop it, stop it. I mean it. Stop, stop it.”

Social media weighs in

The internet was quick to rally behind Washington, with many defending his reaction and slamming the photographer’s behavior.

“He clearly said ‘don’t ever put your hands on me again’ and he did it again to provoke him,” one user wrote.
“Like Keanu Reeves, Denzel Washington is not known for flying off the handle,” another added. “You can’t keep tugging at the man to take a pic.”

Some users sympathized with the constant pressure celebrities face:

“These folks are around people all day, every day grabbing at them and asking them for stuff. Not a life I’d ever want.”

And of course, the internet couldn’t resist cracking a few jokes:

“Denzel ‘UNHAND ME’ Washington lol.”

Despite the uncomfortable moment, Washington’s time at Cannes wasn’t all tension. Just before the premiere, he received a surprise honorary Palme d’Or, one of the highest tributes in cinema.

Festival director Thierry Frémaux shared heartfelt words before presenting the award:

“It’s a very special day. Denzel, because you are here, we want to make something special for you. … It’s a kind of way for us to tell you our adoration.”

Visibly touched, Washington responded:

“I’m a little emotional, but from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all. We’re just blessed beyond measure — I’m blessed beyond measure.”

This incident goes beyond a celebrity losing their cool. It brings up a larger conversation: What boundaries should be respected when it comes to public figures? While stars know that red carpets come with flashing cameras and fanfare, that doesn’t mean they lose the right to personal space.

Washington, known for his calm demeanor and professionalism, rarely makes headlines for conflicts. That’s part of why this moment has drawn so much attention — and support. Many see it not as an overreaction, but as a necessary stand for respect.

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Denzel Washington’s confrontation at Cannes is a reminder that fame doesn’t erase human boundaries. Whether you’re a Hollywood icon or not, being touched without permission can feel invasive — and unacceptable.

Was the photographer simply too eager, or did he cross a clear line? The internet seems to have made up its mind. But the bigger takeaway is this: even in a world of flashing lights and red carpets, respect still matters.

What do you think? Was Denzel right to speak out, or could the moment have been handled differently?