Cate Blanchett baffled fans by saying she is “middle class” — despite having an estimated net worth of $95 million.
The “Lord of the Rings” star was participating in a United Nations press conference during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival Monday when she was asked about her experience as a goodwill ambassador and giving refugee filmmakers a platform.
“I’m white, I’m privileged, I’m middle class, and I think, you know, one can be accused of having a bit of a white savior complex, but to be perfectly honest, my interaction with the refugees in the field and also in resettled environments has totally changed my perspective on the world,” she responded in a video shared on TikTok by the Associated Press.
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Blanchett, who has long been an activist for humanitarian issues, emphasized how “utterly grateful” she was for the experience and encouraged others with a platform to created a “dialogue with these people.”
“I’ve met some extraordinary people with extraordinary creative talents and amazing perspective,” the actress said.
Despite Blanchett’s good intentions talking about her work with refugees, her “middle class” claim shocked viewers.
“you think you’re middle class, Cate Blanchett?” one person commented on the AP’s video.
“I love Cate Blanchett, but in what world is she ‘middle class’ she’s been in two major franchises and is worth an estimated 90 million,” another wrote.
“‘middle class’ my ass,” a third TikTok user added.
“all this is very wonderful and very cool but can we back up and unpack ‘MIDDLE CLASS’ rq [real quick]??!” someone else asked.
“Cate Blanchett is estimated to be $95 million. that Is far from middle class. still [love] her,” another user commented.
“Under no circumstances is a net worth of $95 million middle class!!!” one more viewer wrote.
However, several social media users came to the Australian star’s defense and argued that perhaps she meant “middle class” compared to other actors who are billionaires.
“I was gonna jump on that ‘middle class’ comment but then I realised there are Masters of the Universe, with multiple billions – upper class. Then upper middle class I guess with 100s of mils and then lower middle class with 100s of thousands. All else are really working class now,” one fan commented.
A rep for Blanchett did not immediately return Page Six’s request for comment.
