Denzel Washington Honored at Cannes, But One Red Carpet Moment Turns Tense

TMZ and MailOnline are among the outlets following Denzel Washington’s headline-making appearance at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. While the veteran actor was celebrated with a surprise Honorary Palme d’Or, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. A moment of tension unfolded on the red carpet, capturing just as much attention as the award itself.

Washington was in France for the world premiere of Highest 2 Lowest, his new film directed by longtime collaborator Spike Lee. The actor looked poised and relaxed while walking the iconic red carpet, chatting with Lee and co-star A$AP Rocky. But things shifted when a photographer reached out and touched Washington’s arm.

In a video that quickly circulated online, Washington appeared visibly uncomfortable. He pointed his finger, spoke in a sharp tone, and even clasped the photographer’s arm. While the photographer kept smiling, Washington seemed to be saying “stop it” repeatedly. A lip-reading expert backed this up, according to MailOnline.

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Surprise Palme d’Or Honor from Spike Lee

Despite the awkward moment, the evening was largely a celebration of Washington’s incredible film career. Just before the screening of Highest 2 Lowest, Cannes Film Festival director Thierry Frémaux surprised the actor with an honorary Palme d’Or. The crowd roared in approval as Spike Lee, who had secretly arranged the tribute, presented the award.

“Denzel, because you are here, we want to make something special for you,” Frémaux said. “It’s a kind of way for us to tell you our adoration.”

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Lee wrapped his arm around Washington and added, “This is my brother right here. I love him. I’m glad you’re here where all the people love you too.”

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Highest 2 Lowest marks a big moment for Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, who last worked together on Inside Man in 2006. Before that, they teamed up on Mo’ Better Blues, Malcolm X, and He Got Game. Their new film, a crime thriller inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s work, also stars Jeffrey Wright and Ilfenesh Hadera.

The film isn’t part of the official competition but still made a splash, earning a six-minute standing ovation from the Cannes audience.

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Washington’s career and legacy continue to shine on the world stage. Even with an awkward red carpet moment, the night made it clear—his place in cinema is untouchable.