Denzel Washington Receives Surprise Palme d’Or At Cannes

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Denzel Washington has received the Palme d'Or honor at the Cannes Film Festival in recognition of his long career.

This came as a surprise for Washington, who received the honor ahead of the premiere for Highest 2 Lowest on Monday, May 19, 2025. Marking his fifth collaboration with the director Spike Lee, the film is a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller High and Low, with Washington starring as music mogul David King, alongside Aubrey Joseph, Elijah Wright, and Jeffrey Wright. The film premiered out of competition.

The honor was presented to Washington alongside a reel showcasing the highlights of Washington’s career.

“It’s a very special day,” stated Cannes Festival Chief Thierry Frémaux. “Denzel, because you are here, we want to make something special for you. It’s a kind of way for us to tell you our adoration, what you have done in cinema.”

The Cannes Film Festival, held in France, is celebrated its 78th annual celebration. The Festival was held from Tuesday, May 13, 2025, until Saturday, May 24, 2025.