Denzel Washington Had to Check a Photographer
Denzel Washington Had to Check a Photographer on the Cannes Red Carpet — and Rightfully So
https://www.instagram.com/denzelwashington.official/
Denzel Washington had to let somebody know real quick that boundaries matter — even on the red carpet.
While attending the Cannes Film Festival in France for the premiere of Spike Lee’s new film “Highest 2 Lowest”, the two-time Oscar winner found himself in an uncomfortable moment that turned into a heated exchange with a photographer.
According to a professional lip reader who spoke to the Daily Mail, Denzel was reacting to being touched without permission.
Cameras caught the moment when the legendary actor, 70, pointed his finger and gave a firm verbal check to one of the photographers after the man apparently grabbed his arm.
“Hey — one more time, stop,” Denzel reportedly said, clearly trying to set a boundary. “Let me tell you — stop, stop — never put your hands on me again. I’m talking to you. Stop, all right.”
The photographer, according to the lip reader, didn’t take it seriously — brushing it off with a smirk and saying, “Not allowed.”
But instead of backing off, the photographer grabbed Denzel’s arm again and had the nerve to ask, “Can I take a picture?”
At that point, Denzel had enough. “Stop. Stop it. Stop it. I mean it. Stop. Stop it,” he repeated firmly, visibly frustrated.
Despite the weird vibe, the folks behind the cameras seemed to find the whole thing amusing — but it was clear Denzel wasn’t here for the disrespect.
Thankfully, the situation didn’t take away from the rest of the evening.
Denzel was later surprised with a prestigious honorary Palme d’Or award, presented by his longtime friend and collaborator Spike Lee.
“This is my brother right here. I love him, I love him. I’m glad you’re here where all the people love you too,” Spike said, handing him the award.
Denzel, humbled and emotional, responded: “This is a total surprise for me, so I’m a little emotional, but from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all.”
He added with his usual grace and humility: “
To be here once again in Cannes — we’re a very privileged group in this room. We get to make movies, wear tuxedos and get paid for it too. We’re just blessed beyond measure. I’m blessed beyond measure.”
Let this be a reminder: no matter how iconic you are, personal space and respect still matter. And Denzel? He’s going to speak on it every time.
