And, tying it back to the original situation, this actor clearly was frustrated and needed to vent. And part of our job is to read the subtext (it's why they call us the 5th actor, since we have to essentially breath with the person onstage to call the cue at the right moment). Yes, getting yelled at sucks. Yes, we do our best to fix as fast as we can and get as far ahead as we can and yes (despite everyone else's assumption) are only human. BUT - and this could be generational, or, as another thread discusses, related to age, because as I get older I have learned to let so many things roll off my back, I agree with Matthew. Part of my job is to take it so the actor doesn't send that energy to other actors, the director, the producer etc - or, as I have seen happen when people continue to engage, show up onstage during a performance.
I have worked with many directors who have....let's call it anger management and/or control issues. As long as I don't rise to temptation, the vent ends and we move on with rehearsal/tech/whatever. Mind you, I cd give as good as I get, but why would I want to when all it means is a hushed room full of people afraid to move or talk or do, and everything grinding to a halt. I am fine with knowing that I can just let all that noise happen and then smile, say thank you and go back to the work at hand.
Have I ever lost it? Sure, especially early in my career, when I didn't understand that my being RIGHT had nothing to do with what was going on, nor did it support what we were all trying to accomplish. And I have learned the hard way that letting my emotions kick in will never, ever solve what's going on. And yes, I have a safe outlet; that's where MY stuff goes - off campus, away from rehearsal and the parties involved, where I can vent or whatever to my heart's content and make fun of and berate or just get my frustration off my chest.
It isn't easy, and it takes practice, trust, and deep calm. Cuz the first time you try to stop yourself, you won't. But the benefits in the long run - a director, cast and crew who trust you completely and know you will protect them and the show, are irreplaceable.