Denzel Washington on Meeting King Charles at "Gladiator II" Premiere

Denzel Washington had a noteworthy interaction with King Charles during the Royal Film Performance of "Gladiator II" at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square in London, PEOPLE reported. The event, held on November 13, 2024, coincided a day prior to the King's 76th birthday, as Queen Camilla was recuperating from a chest infection. At this solo engagement commemorating the Film and TV Charity's centenary, the King engaged with the film's cast, which included the 69-year-old Washington.

As the event unfolded, video footage captured Washington shaking the King’s hand and humorously confessing, "I didn't know if I was supposed to grab you or not, but it’s my pleasure." The royal family’s website clarifies that there are no mandatory expectations for meeting royalty, though traditionally, men bow their heads while women might perform a small curtsy, with others choosing simply to shake hands.

Despite the initial uncertainty, the lighthearted moment did not overshadow the meeting. Washington, portraying the character Macrinus, a gladiator and arms dealer in "Gladiator II," expressed enthusiasm while discussing the role with the King. "I’m ... just awful ... I’m a lovely man you’ll see. I’m a lovely chap and doing my best," he jovially explained. In response, King Charles praised Washington’s prolific acting career, complementing the ease of rapprochement demonstrated times before.

The reception highlighted details of Washington’s role as Macrinus, which he had previously elaborated during a Los Angeles film screening in October, describing the character as a "misunderstood" and "product of his environment" figure, manipulating those close to him and grappling with moral dilemmas.

Earlier, SSP wrote that Taylor Swift expressed gratitude for TTPD support and Grammy nominations.