Hollywood icon Denzel Washington made headlines at the Cannes Film Festival, but not just for his acting. The two-time Oscar winner was honored with a surprise Palme d’Or for lifetime achievement during the premiere of his new film Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee. However, the celebration took a turn after a tense moment with a photographer on the red carpet.
Washington, 70, walked the Cannes red carpet for the first time in his career. While fans and media buzzed with excitement, a brief clash occurred when a photographer reportedly grabbed his arm during a photo op.
In response, Washington firmly pulled away, pointed at the photographer, and appeared to say “Stop it” several times, as seen in viral video clips.
Despite the uncomfortable start, the evening ended on a high note. Festival director Thierry Fremaux took the stage to present Washington with the honorary Palme d’Or, an award rarely handed out without prior notice. The surprise left Washington visibly emotional. “It’s a total surprise. I’m so emotional,” he reportedly said, according to an audience member.
The premiere of Highest 2 Lowest, a modern take on Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 classic High and Low, was met with critical praise. The Hollywood Reporter described it as “stylish, witty, and bursting with energy,” while The Guardian called Washington’s performance “magnificent,” noting his commanding portrayal of a powerful music mogul.
The star-studded cast added extra sparkle to the night. A$AP Rocky, who plays a major role in the film, appeared alongside his partner Rihanna. Meanwhile, Spike Lee made his usual statement with a bold orange pinstripe suit and matching hat. Rocky also turned heads with a gleaming gold dental piece.
Clips of Washington’s legendary roles from Malcolm X to Training Day were played in tribute before the award presentation. The moment echoed a similar surprise from last year, when Harrison Ford received an unexpected honorary award at the premiere of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.
Though a red carpet clash briefly stole the spotlight, Denzel’s legacy and cinematic brilliance quickly reclaimed center stage in Cannes.
By Risper Akinyi