Washington, known for his dignified demeanor and professionalism, rarely finds himself in public controversy, making this clash all the more surprising. Representatives for the actor have not yet commented on the situation, nor has the festival issued a formal statement.

While Denzel Washington was overseas promoting his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2025, a tense run-in with paparazzi appeared to steal the spotlight. The Oscar-winning actor ultimately skipped the film's scheduled press conference,