Movies

Denzel Washington Explains Why He Skipped Cannes After Red Carpet Confrontation

BBG News

Denzel Washington has explained why he didn’t attend the press conference for his latest film ‘Highest 2 Lowest’ at the Cannes Film Festival after a heated argument with a photographer on the red carpet.

At the given event, Spike Lee appeared alongside two stars from their film, Jeffrey Wright and Ilfenesh Hadera, while the 70-year-old Oscar winner was not present.

Moments prior, he was spotted arguing with a photographer during the premiere’s red carpet event, an incident confirmed by a lip reader to DailyMail.com.

However, DailyMail.com has been informed by Denzel’s representative in a statement that his schedule had him in and departing from Cannes on May 19th specifically, implying he never intended to attend the press conference.

He had the day off on Monday, as it was his sole free day from the Broadway play of Othello where he is currently acting alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.

Previously, it had been announced that the festival adjusted some of its program to make room for the esteemed actor, with the intention of presenting him an honorary Palme d’Or.

It was made known to the studio and festival a few weeks prior that he wouldn’t be able to attend today’s press conference because of his obligation to work on the play, as Washington’s representative clarified.

The press conference, with Denzel not present, occurred at the Palais des Festivals on a Tuesday morning, following Washington’s departure from the country.

At a recent press conference, Lee, age 68, appeared to allude to Washington’s controversy by saying, ‘Previously, when I was here, I had to offer an apology for a mistake. However, I will not be apologizing for any errors today.’

2021 saw a slight error by Lee, acting as the Cannes jury president, who inadvertently disclosed the Palme d’Or winner, Titane, prior to the formal declaration.

In addition, the director expressed that he doesn’t foresee another collaboration with Washington, given their past projects such as Inside Man (2006), Mo’ Better Blues (1990), Malcolm X (1992), and He Got Game (1998).

Reflecting on our past collaborations, Lee remarked, “It’s hard to believe that it’s been 18 years since we worked together on Inside Man.

‘We were surprised because it felt like yesterday. But we didn’t miss a step. 

It’s been an absolute joy to create these films that the audience adores. I’m grateful for this body of work, and I’m thankful once more. I’m not sure if we’ll make another one.

Lee commented, “I believe we’ve found it. Five movies, Denzel’s mentioned retirement, despite him recently closing another deal.

2nd Highest to Lowest is a new adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller, High and Low. This remake will first hit theaters via A24 on August 22, followed by its streaming debut on Apple TV+ starting September 5.

As a lifestyle expert, I must share an intriguing incident that unfolded at the grand premiere of the latest blockbuster movie. Instead of enjoying the glamour and excitement, I myself found myself right in the middle of an unexpected incident on the red carpet.

According to expert lip reader Jeremy Freeman, it seems that the actor portraying Malcolm X may have been provoked by a photographer who gently touched his arm. (DailyMail.com)

In spite of the forceful tone of his speech, numerous photographers near Washington – among them the one he was addressing angrily – seemed cheerful, implying they might not have recognized the depth of his frustration.

However, the actor has a long history of tense interactions with photographers over the years. 

TopMob has contacted representatives for Washington and Cannes Film Festival for comment. 

Prior to addressing the photographer, Denzel was positioned on the red carpet alongside his co-star from The Highest 2 Lowest movie, the artist formerly known as a rapper, A$AP Rocky, who is now an actor and turns 36 this year.

Despite a disagreement earlier, Washington found himself beaming with joy upon receiving an unexpected Honorary Palme d’Or award from director Spike Lee later on.

Handing the award over to Washington, Spike said: ‘This is my brother, right here.’

‘This is a total surprise for me!’ the actor replied. 

The performer, having been pictured alongside Spike and A$AP Rocky, displayed no indications of travel fatigue and was anticipated to depart for New York straightaway following the movie showing.

When the festival first announced its lineup last month, Highest 2 Lowest wasn’t included. 

Initially, but shortly afterward, Spike declared that the movie was bound for Cannes, and officials from the festival stated they had been anticipating confirmation of Denzel’s attendance on the red carpet.

Seven months ago, the outburst occurred, following an incident in October 2024 where Washington was caught losing his temper with autograph seekers in New York City.

At the Museum of Modern Art, an Oscar-winning actor had a heated interaction with fans during a film event honoring Samuel L. Jackson, which was recorded on video.

At the museum, the actor from The Man on Fire movie was spotted, chatting with a fan and taking pictures together – all the while, autograph seekers whispered his name from a distance.

A visibly annoyed Washington went to walk inside but then turned and addressed a fan in the crowd. 

Although the whole interaction is not clear, the performer appears to have pointed a finger and seemed to say: “I caught that. You were talking about demonstrating affection…

‘…Respecting me’ to which the fan said ‘we already do.’ 

Washington replied: “What part of ‘I’ll see you when I get out’ is unclear to you?

It’s all about expressing care and affection.” But then, growing more impassioned, he exclaimed, “Or not! There are other methods to achieve this… or not. We can even try doing it two ways if necessary!

He then walked inside the building after the shock incident. 

And in 2021 Washington was pictured having an intense moment with a fan.

In New York City, the film actor stood beside his vehicle when a fan approached him carrying a bag full of photos to be signed, as he happened to be there.

The duo had a deep discussion, with the actor seeming as if he was imparting valuable insights to the spectator.

He briefly forgot about social distancing and momentarily rested his hands on his shoulder, gazing intently into his eyes.

As Denzel wore his mask, the admirer lowered his own momentarily, nearly reaching his chin, while the renowned actor positioned his hands around his face.

A bystander asserted that he instructed someone to offer a silent prayer, however, the specific topic of their conversation remains unclear.

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2025-05-21 08:24

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