Cate Blanchett Named Jury President Of 71st Cannes Film Festival

Australian actor Cate Blanchett has been named jury president of the 71st Cannes Film Festival, opening May 8. She follows Spanish director Pedro Almodovar and becomes the 12th woman to head the Cannes jury.

Responding to the announcement, Blanchett said: “I have been to Cannes in many guises over the years; as an actress, producer, in the marketplace, the Gala-sphere and in Competition but never solely for the sheer pleasure of watching the cornucopia of films this great festival harbours.”

Festival president Pierre Lescure and delegate-general Thierry Frémaux said they were "delighted to welcome such a rare and unique artist whose talent and convictions enrich both screen and stage. Our conversations from this autumn tell us she will be a committed President, a passionate woman and a big-hearted spectator.”

Blanchett, a two-time Oscar-winner, is prominent in the Hollywood campaign against sexual harassment. She is one of 300 influential women who launched 'Time's Up' on New Year's Day. 

When allegations surfaced against Harvey Weinstein, the actor immediately lent her support, saying: “Any male who’s in a position of authority or power, you know, whether he be a film producer or the president of the United States who thinks it’s his prerogative to sexually intimidate or abuse women that they come into contact with, whether in the workplace or otherwise, they need to be held to account."