Legendary actor Denzel Washington unsuccessfully tried to shake King Charles III’s hand at the premiere of the film Gladiator II in London on Wednesday.

The actor appeared caught off guard during his meeting with the royal family, seemingly unsure of how to proceed with his handshake with King Charles. famous big fingers Washington looked a little stunned as he lined up on the red carpet with other actors before entering the theater, but it was the king who smoothly began shaking his hand.

“I didn’t know if I should grab your hand or not,” Washington said in the viral video.

The king exchanged kind words with the actor, easing the awkwardness of the moment. When the tension subsided, Washington smiled nervously.

He asked Washington about Macrinus, the character he played in Gladiator II.

“I’m just a terrible person…as you can see, I’m a nice guy,” Washington quipped. “I’m a nice guy.”

At this point Washington had missed his chance, and King Charles had already begun to advance past Washington towards Pedro Pascal. The actor then regained his composure and tried to save the moment by putting in a few words.

King Charles complimented her by saying, “You’ve been in so many movies, it’s amazing.” Washington responded with several words of thanks before the exchange ended. (Related: Denzel Washington hints at role in upcoming film ‘Black Panther’)