Ukrainian model Sawa Pontyjska recently made headlines after claiming that she was physically assaulted by a security guard at the Cannes Film Festival. Pontyjska, who was at the event as a presenter for Fashion TV, alleged that a female security guard restrained her in a bear hug at the top of a staircase, causing her acute pain and psychological trauma. She also claimed that the guard attempted to push her inside a door while trying to prevent anyone from seeing what was happening.
Footage of Pontyjska’s altercation with the security guard went viral on TikTok, showing the model trying to break free from the guard’s hold. Pontyjska accused the festival of allowing guards to use physical force on guests on the red carpet and is seeking over $108,000 in damages for the assault and subsequent psychological damage. This incident is not isolated, as the same security guard had previously clashed with other celebrities, including Kelly Rowland, Massiel Taveras, and K-pop star Yoona.
In response to the altercation, Pontyjska filed a legal complaint against the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting the rudeness and unreasonable use of physical force she experienced. She expressed her shock at the treatment she received on the red carpet, a place she had always dreamed of attending. Pontyjska’s claims of physical assault and psychological damage have raised concerns about the behavior of security guards at high-profile events like Cannes and the mistreatment of guests and celebrities.
This incident is part of a pattern of confrontations involving the same security guard at the Cannes Film Festival. Kelly Rowland and Massiel Taveras were also rushed off the red carpet by the guard, with Rowland scolding the usher for her behavior. The singer emphasized the importance of boundaries and equal treatment for all guests, regardless of their appearance. Despite these controversies, the security guard in question received some support from a colleague, who defended her actions as necessary for maintaining crowd control and enforcing strict timetables for the event.
The ongoing controversies at the Cannes Film Festival raise questions about the treatment of guests and celebrities by security guards and the festival’s response to such incidents. Pontyjska’s experience sheds light on the challenges faced by attendees, including the risk of physical assault and psychological harm. The need for stricter regulations and accountability for security personnel at public events like Cannes is evident, as guests should be able to attend without fear of mistreatment or violence. Overall, the incident involving Sawa Pontyjska highlights the importance of respecting boundaries, ensuring safety, and promoting a positive and inclusive environment for all attendees.
