Denzel Washington found himself in a notably intense confrontation with a photographer, indicating that there may have been a misunderstanding.
During the premiere of his film Highest 2 Lowest at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, Denzel Washington appeared to physically confront a photographer in a very public dispute.
As they walked alongside co-star A$AP Rocky, one of the photographers pulled on Washington’s suit jacket.
This seemingly trivial action appeared to have sparked the entire incident.
Lip reader Jeremy Freeman shared his insights on what he believes Washington communicated to the photographer during an interview with the Mail Online.
According to Freeman, Washington turned to the photographers and seemed to say, “Hey, one – one more time, stop.”
“Let me tell you – stop, stop – never put your hands on me again.”
Washington also made gestures towards the photographer, who appeared unaware of the actor’s serious demeanor and was smiling back at him.
Washington further stated, “I’m talking to you, stop, all right.”
Freeman noted that the photographer responded to Washington by saying ‘not allowed’ before laughing and adding, “Yes, yes, yes.”
However, it appeared that the situation did not end there, which clearly frustrated the actor even more.
Following the tense interaction, the photographer again reached for Washington and seemingly asked, “Can I take a picture?”, as per Freeman.
Washington appeared to attempt to maintain his composure, brushing off the photographer’s grab and retorting, “Stop, stop it, stop it. I mean it. Stop, stop it.”
Many others have weighed in on the surprising encounter captured in the footage of the event, which has begun to circulate on social media.
One individual remarked, “He clearly said ‘don’t ever put your hands on me again’ and he did it again to provoke him into a moment. YUCK.”
Another person commented: “I don’t understand that behavior. These individuals are surrounded by people all day, every day, reaching out to them and asking for things. Not a life I would ever desire; I observe how Denzel reacted and I completely support him.”
A third person humorously remarked, “Denzel ‘UNHAND ME’ Washington lol.”
Spike Lee, who often collaborates with Washington, awarded him an honorary Palme d’Or following the incident, which he characterized as a “total surprise.”
He expressed, “I feel somewhat emotional, but I sincerely thank you all from the depths of my heart.”
“You see, we are truly blessed beyond measure; I am blessed beyond measure.”
