The 2018 Cannes Film Festival may feel far away, but the festival jury is already preparing in a big way by naming their official president.
Cate Blanchett has been announced as the president of this year’s Cannes Film Festival jury, becoming the 12th woman ever to hold this role. The actress will preside over the jury for the 71st edition of the event, succeeding Spanish director Pedro Almodovar.
“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 harbors,” Blanchett said in a statement.
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“I am humbled by the privilege and responsibility of presiding over this year’s jury,” she continued. “This festival plays a pivotal role in bringing the world together to celebrate story; that strange and vital endeavour that all peoples share, understand and crave.”
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The Oscar-winning actress recently launched the Time’s Up campaign alongside other celebrities to fight sexual harassment in Hollywood and in the world at large, partially by funding legal support and defense to those who have experienced sexual harassment and abuse in the workplace.
This year’s Cannes Film Festival begins May 8.