According to Daily Mail, Washington was “always scheduled to be in and out of Cannes on Monday,” and had no intention of participating in press conferences or extended media appearances during the festival.
The actor’s representative explained that Monday was Washington’s only day off from his current Broadway run of Othello, in which he stars alongside Jake Gyllenhaal. The demanding stage schedule made it impossible for the Academy Award winner to engage in promotional events beyond the film’s premiere.
“The studio and festival were aware weeks ago, ahead of time, that he would not be available for the press conference today due to his work commitment on the play,” the statement emphasized.
Washington was at Cannes for the debut of his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, which premiered on Monday. However, the event took a dramatic turn when the actor was seen visibly upset after a photographer tapped him on the shoulder.
According to professional lip reader Jeremy Freeman, Washington turned to the photographer and said, “Hey, one — one more time, stop.” He reportedly followed up with, “Let me tell you — stop, stop — never put your hands on me again.”
Freeman further interpreted Washington as adding, “I’m talking to you, stop, all right.”
The photographer, however, seemed to dismiss the warning. In response to Washington’s frustration, he reportedly laughed and replied, “Not allowed,” followed by “Yes, yes, yes,” and proceeded to ask, “Can I take a picture?”
At this point, a clearly frustrated Washington raised his voice, repeating, “Stop, stop it, stop it. I mean it. Stop, stop it.”
The tense interaction, caught on video and shared widely online, quickly drew attention and divided opinions among fans and media commentators. While some criticized the actor’s reaction, others defended Washington’s right to personal space, especially given the nature of the physical contact.
Despite the confrontation, Washington’s film Highest 2 Lowest was well received during its Cannes debut, with many praising his performance. However, his absence from the press conference and the viral exchange have now become talking points overshadowing the film’s critical reception.
Washington has yet to personally comment on the incident, but his team’s statement makes it clear: the actor was in Cannes for one purpose only — to honor his commitment to the film amidst a packed professional schedule.