Denzel Washington, the Academy Award-winning actor, was involved in a tense interaction with a photographer on May 19, 2025, during the red carpet premiere of his latest film at the Cannes Film Festival in France.
The exchange happened while Washington conversed with director Spike Lee and co-star A$AP Rocky at the world premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest,” a reinterpretation of Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 movie “High and Low.”
Footage shared by The New York Post shows Washington speaking with Lee and Rocky when a person behind a barricade of photographers reached out and touched his arm. Although it is unclear who initially made contact, the action visibly irritated Washington.
The 70-year-old actor confronted a photographer, pointing his finger and verbally addressing him. The photographer’s response, which included laughter, seemed to escalate the situation. Washington was seen lowering the photographer’s arm during the incident.
As Washington attempted to walk away, the photographer grabbed his arm again, prompting Washington to swat the hand away and warn, “Stop it!” before leaving the scene.
A lip reader consulted by the New York Post noted that the photographer said “Not allowed” while smiling during the exchange.
The encounter seemed to impact Washington’s schedule at the film festival, as he missed the “Highest 2 Lowest” press conference the following day. No official explanation was given for his absence.
This confrontation occurred seven months after a similar public incident involving Washington in October 2024. At a New York City, New York benefit event honoring Samuel L. Jackson, Washington addressed autograph seekers who requested he “show some love,” emphasizing his focus on respect, as reported by TMZ.
Despite the incident, a representative for Washington told People magazine that the May 20 event was ultimately a “great evening” for the actor. Washington was honored with the Honorary Palme d’Or, the Cannes Film Festival’s highest recognition.
Washington’s film “Highest 2 Lowest,” directed by Spike Lee, made a strong impression at the festival. Reports indicate the film received a six-minute standing ovation from the Cannes audience.
The film stars Washington and A$AP Rocky, who has also attracted attention at the festival by energetically participating in photocalls with Lee and actor Bill Murray.
The incident with the photographer has drawn significant media coverage, with various outlets examining the details.
“Highest 2 Lowest” represents a major artistic endeavor, adapting Kurosawa’s acclaimed “High and Low.” The 1963 film centers on a wealthy executive faced with paying ransom for his chauffeur’s kidnapped son, who was mistakenly targeted. Lee’s reinterpretation with Washington and Rocky was highly anticipated as a festival highlight.
The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has included several notable moments beyond Washington’s encounter. Other celebrities have made their mark, such as Bill Murray, who reportedly splashed photographers with water during a photocall.
Washington’s presence at Cannes is a significant career milestone, marked by his Honorary Palme d’Or award, recognizing his extensive contributions to cinema over more than four decades, including two Academy Awards. The award ceremony proceeded smoothly, contrasting with the earlier red carpet exchange.
