Cate Blanchett, renowned for earning over $7 million per movie, sparked controversy at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival by referring to herself as “middle class.” The Oscar-winning actress made the comment during a press conference for her new film “Rumors,” while discussing her experiences with refugee filmmakers. She stated, “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, who ranked eighth on Forbes’ list of highest-paid actresses in 2018, added, “But to be perfectly honest, my interaction with refugees in the field and also in resettled environments has changed my perspective on the world, and I’m utterly grateful for that.” This remark quickly drew criticism online, with many labeling the “Oceans 8” star as “out of touch.” One social media user commented, “Cate Blanchett thinks she’s ‘middle class’ compared to who? Jeff Bezos? Rich people are so out of touch.” Another quipped, “Cate Blanchett is ‘middle class’… and I am a giraffe.”

In light of the uproar, let’s delve into Cate Blanchett’s substantial net worth.

Cate Blanchett’s Net Worth Explored

According to Celebrity Net Worth, the two-time Academy Award winner boasts a net worth of approximately $95 million. In 2018 alone, Blanchett earned $13 million from her roles in “The House with a Clock in Its Walls” and “Thor: Ragnarok,” as reported by Forbes.

Blanchett’s illustrious career began on the stage in Sydney in 1992 with David Mamet’s play “Oleanna.” She made her feature film debut in 1997, playing a supporting role in “Paradise Road.” Over the years, she has starred in numerous blockbuster films, including all three “The Lord of the Rings” movies. Her role in “The Aviator” earned her the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2005, and she was named one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in the World” in 2007.

Blanchett, who moved back to Australia in 2006, invested $7 million in a mansion on Sydney’s north shore and an additional $5 million to acquire a neighboring property. She sold the combined estate in 2017 for $13 million.

Considering her significant financial assets and property investments, it is clear that Blanchett’s self-description as “middle class” does not align with the typical understanding of the term.