Denzel Washington Has Tense-Looking Viral Exchange With Photographer On Cannes Red Carpet

The show must go on! Denzel Washington appeared to shake off a tense exchange at the Cannes Film Festival. The now-viral moment took place as Denzel walked the red carpet with his “Highest 2 Lowest” castmates and director Spike Lee on May 19, where he was seen reacting to a photographer who grabbed his arm during the premiere arrivals. Denzel first approached the crowd of paparazzi as the group looked to be smiling and laughing together before the mood changed when one photographer reached out and held Denzel’s arm. The Oscar winner appeared to point his finger and say “stop it” more than once before walking away. The event may have gotten off to an unexpected start for Denzel, but he went on to have a more pleasant surprise once inside. Spike presented the Hollywood icon with an honorary Palme d’Or, Cannes’ top honor, and Denzel reportedly said the award made him “a little emotional.” Though Denzel did skip the “Highest 2 Lowest” press conference, his rep told People that it “was a great evening” overall and he was beaming the next day when attending a photocall for the film.