Veteran Hollywood actor and filmmaker Jodie Foster will receive the honorary Palme d`or at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival, the organisers announced Wednesday. Foster will be a special guest of the opening ceremony on July 6 to collect her award, which recognises artistic career achievement and a commitment to major issues.

The 58-year-old actor said Cannes holds a special place in her career spanning over five decades. She first attended the film gala in 1976 as a teenager with "Taxi Driver", which ultimately left with the Palme d`Or, the highest prize awarded at the festival. "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," said Foster in a statement.