The life of a paparazzo can’t be easy. Despised by many as bloodthirsty vultures and reviled by more as soulless scavengers the hours alone would turn off most job applicants. Admittedly they have never endeared themselves to the world of celebrities as their constant stalking and dangerous use of flash photography have raised the ire of even the most mild-mannered stars. Sure we all watch the end result with glee but having random strangers go through your garbage and camp in front of your home would lead most people to sporadic acts of violence.

Normally portrayed as victims in the fight against paparazzi, celebs every so often decide enough is enough and lash out in a forceful manner. While this is by no means a new event, the last couple of decades have seen a dramatic increase in the frequency of these attacks and most have Mr. Sean Penn to thank.

Commonly known as the master of paparazzi bashing, Penn has perfected the art meeting inappropriate behaviour with equal absurdity. The story goes in 1986 while filming in China he dangled a photographer from a ninth floor balcony. I would sell my soul for a poorly shot mobile phone clip of that event.

In honour of Mr. Penn we have compiled the top ten best celebrity paparazzi punch-ups caught on film. We in no way condone the violence on display but enjoy it none the less.

10. Amy Winehouse
I think it’s time to leave her alone - surely for paparazzi it’s like shooting drunken fish in a barrel.



9.  Hugh Grant
Mr. Grant has a long history of fisticuffs but none more memorable than his attempt at vehicular manslaughter.



8. Matthew McConaughey and his surfer gang
Who would stand up for McConaughey?



7. Quentin Tarantino
Strange confrontation as the anger and violence soon give way to a cowardly standoff.



6. Avril Lavigne
She’s so hardcore.



5. Britney Spears
Bat-shit insane but kudos for the creative use of an umbrella.



4. Chris Martin
The frustration of never matching the brilliant quality of Parachutes is clearly showing.



3. Kanye West
Mr. West proving that despite all his claims he is just a mortal being like the rest of us.



2. Jay Kay
I think on behalf of the entire human race I thank this paparazzo, just sit back and watch it unfold. The money shot is at 3:30 min.



1. Bjork
What makes this so memorable is the fact that Bjork unleashed such raw fury at a reporter instead of the many photographers that were around her. Mental note, never upset Bjork.