Recently my partner was in the capital and saw Jeff Goldblum (Jurassic Park, Independence Day, The Fly, Thor: Ragnarok) on the street with his family (+security?). Since he was with his family, she didn't approach him for a picture or autograph but wonders whether she should've?

I think chance encounters with celebrities are very rare and having that brief interaction can be quite life affirming or a story you can keep with you for a lifetime. Selfies or handshakes literally take seconds. However that interaction can also swing the other way. A polite or rude rejection can also be disheartening and ruin your perception of that person. Even a polite refusal can make further approaches in a social context may make you second guess your 'reading of the room' and affect your confidence in future social interactions.

It's easier to say and type, but personally I would've approached. I think being turned down or rejected in the past has made me a little bit tougher to face further rejection. And I always see the reward of a selfie or autograph to outweigh the drawback of an awkward interaction. I've also heard tales from friends whenever they have rubbed shoulders with movie stars in restaurants or on the streets as positive!

I've met Dani Harmer (Tracy Beaker) in the pub and even though she was on the way out, still stayed a while for a picture and natter. I've also met cosplayers (out of costume) just attending a convention and they were equally as gracious to speak and take pictures with fans.
Other times I think I seen Zazie Beetz (Atlanta) or Matt Lucas but failed to act so always think back regretfully on the would've, should've, could've.

What does other JAers think? Would you approach or have you had negative experience in meeting famous individuals in public?