Denzel Washington Debunks Cannes Bailout Rumors, Honored with Palme d’Or

Denzel Washington set the record straight after rumors swirled that he ditched the Cannes Film Festival following a heated moment on the red carpet. The 70-year-old icon, fresh from commanding the stage as Othello on Broadway, was only ever meant to make a quick stop at the French Riviera. His team shut down the gossip, stating, "He was always scheduled for a brief visit, in and out on Monday. It was a fantastic evening."

The drama kicked off when a photographer seemingly grabbed Washington’s arm, prompting a fiery reaction caught on video. Denzel, never one to shy away, pointed and shouted, "Stop!" as the crowd of shutterbugs chuckled. Yet, the festival rolled on, surprising Washington with an honorary Palme d’Or for his cinematic legacy. Festival chief Thierry Frémaux, joined by longtime collaborator Spike Lee, showered praise on the star, calling him a cinematic treasure.

Washington, visibly moved, accepted the honor with gratitude: "This is a total surprise. I’m a little emotional, but from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all." He celebrated his latest project with Lee, Highest 2 Lowest, and reflected on the privilege of filmmaking. "We’re blessed beyond measure," he told the Cannes crowd, proving once again why he remains a titan of the screen.