Tensions flared on the red carpet at Cannes as Denzel Washington abruptly halted the spotlight — turning it on a photographer instead.

What was meant to be a glamorous premiere for Highest 2 Lowest quickly took a sharp turn when the Hollywood icon called someone out in front of the world.

Lip reader reveals

Actor Denzel Washington was anything but pleased when a photographer crossed the line during the Cannes Film Festival, currently taking place on the French Riviera.

The Hollywood star was walking alongside co-star A$AP Rocky at the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest on May 19 when something happened that clearly set him off.

According to multiple outlets, one of the photographers tugged on Washington’s suit jacket — and that small move seemed to trigger the entire confrontation.

The Daily Mail later brought in lip-reading expert Jeremy Freeman to decode the fiery exchange. According to Freeman, Washington turned to the photographers and said:

“Hey, one – one more time, stop. Let me tell you – stop, stop – never put your hands on me again.”

Washington also pointed his finger at the man, who, shockingly, smiled back — seemingly not taking the actor’s warning seriously.

“I’m talking to you, stop, all right,” Washington added.

Freeman claimed the photographer responded with “not allowed” before laughing and saying: “Yes, yes, yes.”

Things escalated even more when, according to Freeman, the same photographer grabbed at Washington again and asked, “Can I take a picture?”

Trying to hold back his frustration, Washington reportedly shouted:
“Stop, stop it, stop it. I mean it. Stop, stop it.”

Internet reacts

Video of the confrontation has since blown up on social media, with many defending the Oscar-winning actor.

One user commented: “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 chimed in: ”Like Keanu Reeves, Denzel Washington is not known for flying off the handle. It takes a lot to set him off. I mean, you can’t keep tugging at the man to take a pic.”

Tensions flared on the red carpet at Cannes as Denzel Washington abruptly halted the spotlight — turning it on a photographer instead.

What was meant to be a glamorous premiere for Highest 2 Lowest quickly took a sharp turn when the Hollywood icon called someone out in front of the world.

Lip reader reveals

Actor Denzel Washington was anything but pleased when a photographer crossed the line during the Cannes Film Festival, currently taking place on the French Riviera.

The Hollywood star was walking alongside co-star A$AP Rocky at the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest on May 19 when something happened that clearly set him off.