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Denzel Washington’s sudden absence from a Cannes Film Festival press conference this week caught a lot of people’s attention, especially after he was involved in a tense moment with a photographer on the red carpet. Fans quickly wondered if the two events were connected, but Washington’s team clarified that his no-show was planned well in advance and had nothing to do with the incident.
The 70-year-old actor was seen on Monday night having a heated exchange with a photographer at the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest, a film directed by his longtime collaborator Spike Lee. Lip readers later suggested Washington was shouting after the photographer tapped him on the arm. Despite the intense moment, people nearby didn’t seem too worried, even smiling during the confrontation.
Washington didn’t show up for Tuesday morning’s press conference, which was instead attended by Spike Lee and co-stars Jeffrey Wright and Ilfenesh Hadera. This absence sparked plenty of speculation, but a spokesperson told The Daily Mail that Washington’s schedule was already set weeks ago. He was only supposed to be in Cannes briefly on Monday, which was his one day off from starring in the Broadway production of Othello with Jake Gyllenhaal.
The rep also said that both the film studio and the festival organizers knew about Washington’s limited availability ahead of time. In fact, parts of the festival were even adjusted so he could receive an honorary Palme d’Or award Monday night—a surprise moment presented by Spike Lee. Lee called Washington “my brother” while handing over the honor, and a visibly moved Washington admitted, “This is a total surprise for me!”
At Tuesday’s press event, Spike Lee hinted at the situation with a bit of humor, saying, “The last time I was in this room, I had to apologize for a f*** up, but I won’t be apologizing today for a f*** up.” He also mentioned this might be the last time he works with Washington, who has hinted at retirement.
So, while fans might have been caught off guard by Washington’s quick exit from Cannes, it looks like his visit was always meant to be short. His busy Broadway schedule and the carefully planned itinerary mean that any drama around his absence is probably more hype than reality.