Cate Blanchett faces backlash for describing herself as ‘middle class’ at Cannes

"She thinks she's 'Middle Class' compared to who? Jeff Bezos?," said one user on X.

Oscar-winning actress Cate Blanchett stirred controversy at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival when she referred to herself as "middle class," despite her reported $95 million net worth. 

The comment, made during a press conference for her new movie "Rumours," quickly sparked a backlash on social media platforms, particularly X, formerly known as Twitter.

"I’m white, I’m privileged, I’m middle class and I think one can be accused of having a bit of a white savior complex," Blanchett stated, discussing her experiences with refugee filmmakers. Her remarks led to a flurry of reactions online, with some users criticizing her for being out of touch with reality due to her substantial wealth. 

Comments ranged from sarcastic jabs like "Yes, it’s really tough having to deal with the poor," to outright disbelief, with one user exclaiming, "Cate Blanchett thinks she’s ‘middle class’ compared to who? Jeff Bezos?"

However, some fans came to her defense, explaining that Blanchett might have been using "middle class" in a context more common in British slang, which often refers to cultural and familial heritage rather than financial status. 

"She is speaking of her class, not her bank balance," one supporter clarified.

Blanchett's new dark comedy "Rumours" premiered at Cannes to positive reception, receiving a four-minute standing ovation. Directed by Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson, the film features a star-studded cast including Alicia Vikander and Charles Dance. 

"Rumours" humorously portrays world leaders getting lost in the woods during a G7 summit.

Despite the online controversy, Blanchett emphasized that "Rumours" does not aim to be a preachy or message-heavy film, marking a departure from typical politically charged narratives.