Denzel Washington got a surprise Palme d'Or honor from the Cannes Film Festival ahead of Monday night's world premiere of Spike Lee's 'Highest 2 Lowest.'

Other winners of the honorary Palme d’Or since it was first presented in 2002 include Jodie Foster, Harrison Ford, Clint Eastwood, and just last year, Meryl Streep and George Lucas. Also notable last year was the first time a company won versus an actor, when beloved animation giant and Hayao Miyazaki house Studio Ghibli nabbed the honor.

The fest's highest honor for an individual was presented to the Oscar winner ahead of the premiere of his latest film, 'Highest 2 Lowest,' which is screening out of competition this year.