CATE BLANCHETT - BLANCHETT PAYS TRIBUTE TO HEPBURN RELATIVES

Australian actress CATE BLANCHETT paid tribute to KATHARINE HEPBURN's relatives for their generosity, after winning an OSCAR for her portrayal of the late actress in THE AVIATOR.

The blonde star was named Best Supporting Actress at the ACADEMY AWARDS in Hollywood's Kodak Theatre last night (27FEB05).

Blanchett said, "She was alive when I accepted the part. Unfortunately, she passed away as I stepped on the plane to start rehearsals.

"I had asked if it was possible to meet her, but she was very ill.

"Her family and close friends have been very generous to me. They seemed pleased and they say she will be pleased... I believe them."