Denzel Washington confronted a pushy photographer at Cannes 2025, firmly telling him to “stop” after repeated touching. Watch the viral video, read lip-reader insights, and see social media reactions.
Denzel Washington’s Firm but Composed Response to Pushy Photographer at Cannes 2025
Denzel Washington, the two-time Oscar-winning actor, made headlines at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival not just for his latest film Highest 2 Lowest but for a tense red-carpet moment where he confronted a photographer who repeatedly touched him. While the incident briefly overshadowed his appearance, Washington’s composed yet firm reaction has since drawn widespread support from fans and commentators.
The Viral Red Carpet Moment
During the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest—his fifth collaboration with director Spike Lee—Washington was seen on video pointing at a photographer and sternly telling him to “Stop!” after the man grabbed his arm multiple times .
A lip reader, Jeremy Freeman, decoded the exchange for the Daily Mail, revealing Washington’s exact words:
“Hey, one—one more time, stop. Let me tell you—stop, stop—never put your hands on me again. I’m talking to you, stop, all right.”
The photographer, seemingly unfazed, smiled and replied, “Not allowed” before grabbing Washington’s arm again, prompting the actor to yank away and repeat, “Stop it, stop it. I mean it.” 1315.
Social Media Reactions: Fans Rally Behind Denzel
The video quickly went viral, with Twitter/X users overwhelmingly supporting Washington’s stance on personal boundaries:
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@stocksandgo: “It’s obvious he didn’t want to be touched, yet he was touched again, and then the guy grabbed his arm to hold him in place. What was that?!”
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@annamilanollo: “If someone grabbed me like that not once but twice after I confronted them, he would’ve caught these hands. People really think celebrities are public property.”
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@DigitalZiggurat: “Always and forever on Denzel Washington’s side.”
Many praised Washington for maintaining his composure while firmly setting boundaries—a rare display in an industry where stars often tolerate aggressive paparazzi behavior.
Spike Lee’s Response & The Honorary Palme d’Or Surprise
Despite the altercation, Washington’s evening ended on a high note. Director Spike Lee surprised him with an honorary Palme d’Or, Cannes’ highest honor, before the screening.
In his emotional acceptance speech, Washington said:
“This is a total surprise for me, so I’m a little emotional… It was a great opportunity to collaborate with my brother once again—brother from another mother, Spike.”
Lee, who has collaborated with Washington on classics like Malcolm X and Inside Man, hinted this might be their final project together, saying:
“I don’t know if we’re going to do it again. I think this is it. Five [films]. He’s been talking about retirement.”
Why Washington Skipped the Press Conference—And the Real Reason
Rumors swirled that Washington left Cannes early due to the altercation, but his rep clarified:
“He was always scheduled to be in and out of Cannes on Monday due to his Broadway commitment in Othello.”
The festival had reshuffled its schedule weeks in advance to accommodate his limited availability, ensuring he could receive the honorary award .
Final Thoughts: A Lesson in Respecting Boundaries
Washington’s reaction highlights a broader issue—celebrities’ right to personal space. While photographers vie for the perfect shot, his firm but controlled response serves as a reminder that respect should always come first.
As Highest 2 Lowest prepares for its August 22 theatrical release, this moment—and Washington’s dignified handling of it—will likely remain a talking point.
