Denzel Washington’s heated confrontation with a photographer at the Cannes Film Festival has sparked conversation about celebrity boundaries, with his longtime collaborator Spike Lee subtly supporting the actor’s stance.
At a Glance
- Denzel Washington, 70, confronted a photographer who tapped his arm during the Cannes Film Festival, telling him “Never put your hands on me again.”
- Washington subsequently skipped the press conference for “Highest 2 Lowest,” his fifth collaboration with director Spike Lee.
- Lee made subtle references to the incident during the press conference, noting he “won’t be apologizing today for a f–k up.”
- Despite the altercation, Washington later appeared in good spirits when Lee presented him with an honorary Palme d’Or award.
- The incident highlights the tension between celebrities’ personal boundaries and media coverage at high-profile events.
The Confrontation That Made Headlines
The tense exchange occurred when a photographer at the Cannes Film Festival reportedly tapped Washington on the arm, prompting the acclaimed actor to respond with clear boundaries. According to lip reader Jeremy Freeman, Washington firmly told the photographer, “Let me tell you — stop, stop. Never put your hands on me again.” The confrontation, which saw Washington pointing his finger at the individual, quickly became a focal point of attention at the prestigious event, overshadowing the premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest,” Washington’s fifth collaboration with director Spike Lee.
Following the incident, Washington notably skipped the film’s press conference, with no official explanation provided for his absence. His representative has not responded to requests for comment, and it remains unclear whether Washington is still in France or has returned to the United States, where he is currently starring in “Othello” on Broadway with performances scheduled for Sunday and Tuesday. The veteran actor has not publicly addressed the confrontation.
Spike Lee’s Subtle Show of Support
During the press conference for “Highest 2 Lowest,” director Spike Lee made comments that many interpreted as a subtle defense of Washington’s actions. Lee referenced a previous incident where he had to apologize at Cannes, but made it clear this situation was different, stating, “The last time I was in this room, I had to apologize for a f–k up. But I won’t be apologizing today for a f–k up.” This statement suggested Lee did not believe Washington’s response warranted an apology.
“This is the fifth one we’ve done together,” the screenwriter said. “It has been a blessing, this body of work between us, doing films that people love. And I think this is it.”
Lee’s comments hinted at the possibility that “Highest 2 Lowest” might be their final project together, as Washington has reportedly been discussing retirement. Despite this suggestion, the director’s admiration for Washington remained evident. Lee has long been an advocate for Washington’s work, even expressing his belief that Washington deserved an Oscar for his performance in “Malcolm X” over Al Pacino’s win for “Scent of a Woman.”
Beyond the Incident: A Notable Career Milestone
The altercation did not appear to cast a long shadow over Washington’s Cannes experience. Later during the festival, Lee presented Washington with an honorary Palme d’Or award, a prestigious recognition of his contributions to cinema. During this ceremony, Washington seemed to be in good spirits, suggesting the earlier confrontation had not diminished the significance of this career milestone. Lee’s warm introduction demonstrated their enduring professional relationship.
“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,” Lee told Washington on the stage.
In “Highest 2 Lowest,” Washington plays David King, a legendary music producer involved in a ransom plot. The film, which also features performers A$AP Rocky and Ice Spice, received a standing ovation from the Cannes audience, highlighting that despite the off-screen drama, the artistic collaboration between Lee and Washington continues to resonate with viewers. The film represents their fifth project together in a partnership that has spanned decades.
