Ukrainian model Sawa Pontyjska sues Cannes Film Festival over assault by security guard

Ukrainian model Sawa Pontyjska has lodged a legal complaint against the organisers of the Cannes Film Festival, alleging she was assaulted by a security guard on the red carpet. The incident is just one of the many that went viral during the prestigious French event. Several similar incidents involving singer Kelly Rowland, South Korean actress Yoona and Dominican actress Massiel Taveras have sparked significant controversy.

Pontyjska, who also serves as a presenter for FashionTV, recounted the ordeal to BBC News, describing how she was "brutally" restrained by a female security guard as she attempted to enter the premiere of Marcello Mio with a valid ticket.

"I was trying to escape from this lock. I went down and I started to run away on the stairs because it was the way back [out]. She was trying to push me in[side], so nobody can see what she's doing with me. Then she kicked me out through the back door," she said.

On Wednesday, Pontyjska shared documents on social media accusing the festival of "physical assault and psychological damage," stating that the incident not only caused her acute physical pain but also inflicted psychological trauma and damaged her reputation. She is seeking £85,000 in damages.

The incident, which occurred on May 21, was captured on video and has since gained over 16 million views on TikTok. The footage shows Pontyjska being stopped at the top of the steps to the Palais des Festivals by a security guard. A brief struggle ensues, during which Pontyjska nearly falls before being intercepted by another security personnel and escorted inside.

Pontyjska's experience was not an isolated case. Singer Kelly Rowland also reported an unpleasant encounter with the same guard at the same premiere.

The guard, whose actions have drawn significant attention, was also seen in viral videos involving South Korean actress Yoona and Dominican actress Massiel Taveras.