Cannes, France (AP) – A female security guard at the Cannes Film Festival has found herself at the center of controversy after a series of heated altercations with celebrities on the red carpet, renewing discussions around issues of respect and appropriate conduct.
The unidentified guard, who is on a short-term contract with the festival, has been captured in videos clashing with former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland, Dominican actor Massiel Taveras, and most recently, Korean actress Yoona from the K-pop group Girls’ Generation.
In the latest incident on Thursday, Yoona, whose full name is Im Yoon-ah, appeared surprised and uncomfortable as the security guard kept her arm outstretched, making it difficult for the actress to stop or wave to fans while ascending the stairs.
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The guard’s actions have faced intense backlash online, with fans of the celebrities involved defending their idols and calling for the guard’s dismissal, accusing her of being disrespectful.
The most high-profile altercation occurred last week when Rowland, 43, was seen scolding the guard after being ushered away from photographers on the red carpet.
“The woman knows what happened; I know what happened,” Rowland told AP Entertainment. “I have a boundary, and I stand by those boundaries, and that is it. And there were other women who attended that carpet who did not look quite like me. And they didn’t get scolded or pushed off or told to get off. And I stood my ground, and she felt like she had to stand hers. But I stood my ground.”
In footage from that incident, Rowland was seen smiling and posing for photos before the guard attempted to guide her away, accidentally stepping on the train of the star’s dress. Rowland then turned around to sternly address the guard, who did not back down.
A similar altercation occurred with Taveras, who starred in films like “The Other Penelope.” The guard was seen placing her arm over Taveras’ head and chest as she tried to usher her inside, prompting the actress to retaliate by pushing the guard’s face.
Colleagues of the security guard have defended her actions, stating that she was “just doing her job” under immense pressure to keep the red carpet moving smoothly.
However, the incidents have reignited discussions around issues of respect, professionalism, and appropriate conduct, especially in high-profile events attended by celebrities from diverse backgrounds.
Festival organizers have yet to comment on the incidents or the security guard’s future involvement in the event.
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