Jodie Foster to receive honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes

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Jodie Foster to receive honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes

Writer: Heidi Hsia

She'll have to make space on that shelf for another award

4 Jun – Jodie Foster has been selected to be this year's honorary Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, which will run from 6 to 17 July 2021.

The news was announced by festival President Pierre Lescure, stating, "Jodie Foster has provided us with an amazing gift by coming to celebrate the return of the Festival on the Croisette. Her aura is unparalleled: she embodies modernity, the radiant intelligence of independence and the need for freedom."

On the other hand, the actress recently expressed elation by the honour, stating, "Cannes is a festival to which I owe so much, it has completely changed my life. My first time on the Croisette was a defining moment for me. Showcasing one of my films here has always been a dream of mine."

"I am flattered that Cannes thought of me and I am very honoured to be able to share a few words of wisdom or tell an adventure or two with a new generation of filmmakers," she said.

Jodie Foster attended the Cannes Festival to promote "The Beaver" in 2011 alongside Mel Gibson

The prize, which recognises artistic career achievement and commitment to major issues, has previously been awarded to the likes of Jeanne Moreau, Bernardo Bertolucci, Jane Fonda, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Manoel de Oliveira, Jean-Pierre Léaud, Agnès Varda and Alain Delon.

It is noted that Foster has had seven of her films screened at the festival since her acting debut, including "Taxi Driver", which she starred at just 13.