Denzel Washington’s Rep Confirms ‘Great Evening’ at Cannes 2025 Despite Red Carpet Clash With Photographer; See What Happened

Denzel Washington had a tense moment with a photographer at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival but still enjoyed a successful night. The actor’s representative confirmed the incident did not ruin his experience.

Washington, 70, attended the premiere of his new film Highest 2 Lowest alongside director Spike Lee and co-star A$AP Rocky. A photographer grabbed his arm, leading to a heated exchange. The actor firmly told the photographer to stop touching him.

Despite the confrontation, Washington received an honorary Palme d’Or award that evening. He called the recognition a “total surprise” and thanked the audience emotionally. His rep later stated, “It was a great evening,” dismissing any negative impact from the incident.

The film Highest 2 Lowest, a modern take on Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low, earned a six-minute standing ovation. Washington plays a music mogul caught in a ransom plot. This marks his fifth collaboration with Spike Lee, following classics like Malcolm X and Inside Man.

Washington left Cannes early due to his Broadway commitment in Othello. His absence from a press conference was pre-planned, not related to the photographer incident. Spike Lee humorously referenced past controversies but did not directly address the clash.

“This is a total surprise for me, so I’m emotional. It’s a great opportunity to collaborate with my brother once again, brother from another mother, and to be here once again in Cannes,” Washington said during his award speech.

The photographer repeatedly tried to get Washington’s attention, leading to the actor’s sharp response. Lip reader Jeremy Freeman revealed Washington said, “Let me tell you — stop, stop. Never put your hands on me again.” The photographer smiled throughout the exchange.

This is not the first time Washington has reacted strongly to intrusive behavior. In 2024, he was filmed telling fans in New York, “I said, ‘I’ll see you when I get out, which part of that don’t y’all understand?’”

Spike Lee hinted Highest 2 Lowest might be his last film with Washington. The actor has previously discussed retirement but clarified he still has projects lined up. His Broadway schedule limited his Cannes availability, with only one day free for the festival.

The red carpet moment went viral, but Washington’s team emphasized it was a minor incident. The actor focused on celebrating his film and career achievements. His emotional speech highlighted gratitude for his long-standing collaboration with Lee.

Credits: Sources include E! News, Page Six, TMZ, and Us Weekly.

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