On May 17, 2026, at the awards ceremony of the 79th Cannes Film Festival, the jury awarded the Best Actress prize to two performers: Tao Okamoto (Japan) and Virginie Efira (Belgium-France). This marks the first time a Japanese actor has received this honor.
Tao Okamoto, born in 1985 in Chiba City, was previously known for her roles in international productions such as Logan (2017) and The Wolverine (2013). At Cannes 2026, she was recognized for her performance in director Naomi Kawase's film “The Last Blossom.” In the film, Okamoto plays a single mother battling illness, conveying emotional depth and resilience.
Virginie Efira, 49, won for her role in director Christophe Honoré's “The Other Side of the Mirror.” The story follows a middle-aged woman rediscovering herself through new relationships. Efira, a former César nominee, previously won Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival in 2022.
The two actresses walked onto the stage of the Palais des Festivals together, holding hands and thanking the jury. In her speech, Okamoto said: “This award is not only for me but for all Japanese women pursuing their dreams in cinema.” Efira added: “Cinema is the common language of humanity. We share this joy together.”
This year's Best Actress prize at Cannes was a surprise as the jury decided to split the honor between two talented actresses, reflecting the spirit of cultural exchange and the diversity of world cinema.
