French cinema star Juliette Binoche will preside over the 78th Festival de Cannes, marking a remarkable full-circle moment in her celebrated career. The acclaimed actress has been selected as the international jury president for the 2025 festival, exactly 40 years after her breakthrough performance launched her to global stardom.
Binoche’s appointment carries deep personal significance. In 1985, she first climbed the festival’s famous steps in André Téchiné’s “Rendez-vous,” a film that catapulted her into the international spotlight. “I was born at the Festival de Cannes,” Binoche has often said, reflecting on that pivotal moment.
“In 1985, I walked up the steps for the first time with the enthusiasm and uncertainty of a young actress,” Binoche shared. “I never imagined I’d return 40 years later in the honorary role of Jury President.” She emphasized her appreciation for the responsibility, noting the need for humility in such a prestigious role.
The actress brings an unprecedented record to the position. She is the only performer to have won best actress awards at Cannes, Venice, and Berlin film festivals. Her own Cannes Best Actress award came in 2010 for “Certified Copy,” adding to her numerous accolades, including a 1997 Academy Award for “The English Patient.”
Throughout her career, Binoche has worked with renowned directors like Michael Haneke, David Cronenberg, and Claire Denis. Her most recent Cannes appearance was in 2023’s “The Taste of Things,” which won the festival’s Best Director award.
Beyond her artistic achievements, Binoche leads the European Film Academy and has become a prominent voice in cinema advocacy. Her jury presidency continues the festival’s recent tradition, following Greta Gerwig’s leadership last year.
The 78th Festival de Cannes will run from May 13 to May 24, 2025, with Binoche guiding her fellow jury members in selecting the festival’s most prestigious awards.