Cate Blanchett named Cannes Film Festival 2018 jury president

'I am humbled by the privilege and responsibility'

Cate Blanchett at the InStyle Awards 2017 (Getty)

Following on from a stellar 2017, two-time Oscar winner Cate Blanchett has been announced as this year’s Cannes Film Festival jury president.

The Australian actor — who recently helped launch the Time’s Up campaign against sexual harassment in the workplace — will lead a panel of actors and filmmakers to decide the winner of the prestigious Palme d’Or award along with the festival’s other main prizes.

Speaking about the placement, Blanchett said in a statement: "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.

"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: that strange and vital endeavour that all peoples share, understand and crave.”

Speaking about Blanchett, who has won Oscars for The Aviator and Blue Jasmine, and been nominated for five other times, the festival's organisers said: "We are delighted to welcome such a rare and unique artist whose talent and convictions enrich both screen and stage”.

Last year, Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodovar presided over the festival, which featured Will Smith on the jury. After arguing over Netflix’s place at the festival, the pair eventually decided on The Square as the winner of the Palme d'Or.

Blanchett recently appeared in the film Manifesto, playing 13 different personas, and the Marvel blockbuster Thor: Ragnarok.