Denzel Washington has awkward encounter with King Charles III at ‘Gladiator II’ premiere

Denzel Washington has had a royal fumble when meeting King Charles III at the Gladiator II premiere as Princess Catherine drops a surprise Christmas video.

Denzel Washington had a bit of a misstep during his meeting with King Charles III at the Gladiator II premiere in London on Wednesday.

The 69-year-old Equalizer 3 star attended the event alongside co-stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, director Sir Ridley Scott, and, of course, King Charles himself.

As is customary at royal premieres, the film’s cast members lined up on the red carpet to greet the monarch before heading into the theatre

The King appeared to initiate a handshake with Denzel Washington much to his relief. Picture: AFP

Britain's King Charles III meets US actor Denzel Washington upon arrival for the Royal film performance and World premiere of the film "Gladiator II". Picture: AFP

When it was Washington’s turn to meet King Charles, the 75-year-old sovereign, following conversations with Scott, 86, and Mescal, 28, the Training Day actor appeared a bit flustered. He awkwardly admitted to the king that he wasn’t sure how to properly greet him.

The King appeared to then initiate a handshake with the star, much to Washington’s relief.

“I didn’t know if I was supposed to grab your hand or not,” Washington told the King with a grin as they shook hands.

Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, Connie Nielsen, Ridley Scott, Paul Mescal, Fred Hechinger and Pedro Pascal attend the Royal Film Performance and Global Premiere of "Gladiator II" at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square. Picture: Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

Charles then asked Washington about his character in “Gladiator II,” the villainous Macrinus.

“I’m, just an awful … I’m a lovely man you’ll see,” Washington said, sarcastically. “I’m a lovely chap.”

King Charles then told Washington, “You’ve been in so many films, it’s fantastic.”

Washington then responded, “Thank you, thank you.”

KATE DROPS SURPRISE CHRISTMAS VIDEO

The Princess of Wales has posted a surprise new video showing the invitations for her fourth annual carol service, “fresh off the press.”

“Something exciting is coming…,” Princess Kate’s team wrote on X, adding emojis of a Christmas tree and music note.

“The invitations are fresh off the press for this year’s Together At Christmas Carol Service, which will be returning to Westminster Abbey on Friday 6 December,” the caption continued. “We can’t wait for you to join us too! Tune in on @ITV and @ITVX on Christmas Eve.”

Something exciting is coming... 🎄🎵

The invitations are fresh off the press for this year's Together At Christmas Carol Service, which will be returning to Westminster Abbey on Friday 6 December.

We can't wait for you to join us too! Tune in on @ITV and @ITVX on Christmas Eve. pic.twitter.com/knmlyN6PZt

— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) November 13, 2024

The video comes as Princess Catherine announced she will host her annual Christmas carol concert next month as she continues her gradual return to public duties after completing her treatment for cancer.

In a poignant touch in light of Prince William’s description of 2024 as a “brutal” year, the Together At Christmas Service Carol Service will reflect on love and empathy.

Princess Catherine will host her annual Together At Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey. Picture: AFP

Kensington Palace said: “This year’s service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.

“The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities.”

Princess Catherine at last year’s concert. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

The much-loved royal with husband Prince William and their children at the Westminster Abbey event in 2022. Picture: AFP

The Palace added: “This year, Her Royal Highness wanted to celebrate the many people supporting those in need - individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.”

“The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities.”

Princess Catherine attends the 2021 event. Picture: Samir Hussein/WireImage

Despite her health struggles, the much-loved royal was determined that the annual televised festive event at Westminster Abbey on December 6, which will be broadcast on Christmas Eve, would go ahead.

The event has become a popular highlight of the royal calendar and this year will mark the fourth time that Princess Catherine has hosted the show.

In a secret surprise that stunned royal fans, she memorably played the piano during her first concert.

Nearly 2000 guests will be in attendance including members of the royal family as well as the Middleton clan.

Last year, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis — in his first appearance at the event — attended, along with King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Catherine’s parents and siblings, and numerous other members of the royal family.

The 2024 service will combine “traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none”.

The event will feature performances by the Westminster Abbey choir, singers Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean, and Gregory Porter, and the decorations inside the Abbey will be inspired by nature.

It comes after Princess Catherine attended her first major engagements in months, thrilling royal fans with her appearances at the Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph and the Festival of Remembrance ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall.