Oscar-winning actress Cate Blanchett has been named the jury president of the 71st edition of the Cannes Film Festival.
The Australian actress follows Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar, who presided over the jury for the festival's 70th edition and awarded the prestigious Palme d’or to The Square by Swedish director Ruben Östlund, says the Hollywood Reporter.
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.”
The Cannes Film Festival begins May 8.
