The two-time Academy Award winner said in a statement obtained by CNN that she was "humbled" to take on the role. "This festival plays a pivotal role in bringing the world together to celebrate story; that strange and vital endeavor that all peoples share, understand and crave," Blanchett said. This announcement comes on the heels of sexual misconduct allegations against several of Hollywood's most powerful men. Blanchett has been vocal about the allegations against former movie producer, Harvey Weinstein, telling Variety that she "wholeheartedly" supports the women who have come forward.