05 January, 2018
Actor Cate Blanchett will head the awards jury at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival in May.
The Australian movie star is a major voice in the campaign against sexual harassment.
In a statement, Festival officials Pierre Lescure and Thierry Fremaux praised Blanchett. They called her "a rare and unique artist whose talent and convictions enrich both screen and stage."
Blanchett is a two-time Academy Award winner. She also was an early supporter of the women who accused Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein of sexual wrongdoing.
Weinstein resigned as head of the powerful Weinstein Company in October. He left a few weeks after the first reports of widespread accusations against him were published.
Blanchett recently joined the Time's Up campaign with movie stars Reese Witherspoon, Emma Stone and others. The campaign aims to act against sexual harassment and inequality in the workplace.
Blanchett said she had been to Cannes for many reasons over the years: as an actress, producer and in competition. But the actor said she has never attended only for the pleasure of watching the many films the festival offers.
"I am humbled by the privilege and responsibility of presiding over this year's jury. This festival plays a pivotal role in bringing the world together to celebrate story," Blanchett said.
Blanchett won the 2014 best actress Oscar for her part in the movie "Blue Jasmine." Ten years earlier, she had won the Academy Award for best supporting actress in "The Aviator."
In 2012, the French government honored Blanchett with the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Blanchett follows Spanish director Pedro Almodovar. He headed the 70th festival in the coastal town of Cannes last year. This year's event will take place from May 8 to 19.
I'm Caty Weaver.
Caty Weaver adapted this story for Learning English based on Associated Press news reports. Mario Ritter was the editor.
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Words in This Story
unique – adj. used to say that something or someone is unlike anything or anyone else
conviction – n. a strong belief or opinion
harassment – n. the act of annoying or bothering (someone) In a repeated way
humbled – adj. not thinking of yourself as better than other people
privilege – n. a special opportunity to do something that makes you proud
pivotal – adj. very important