Oscar Winner to Champion Lifewear Values and Global Philanthropy in New Role
Uniqlo has named Academy Award–winning actor Cate Blanchett as its newest global brand ambassador. The partnership with the internationally acclaimed performer is designed to reinforce the Japanese retailer’s Lifewear philosophy—focused on timeless design, simplicity, quality, and a commitment to positive social impact.
“Ms. Blanchett is among the greatest actors of her generation—on stage and on screen,” said Tadashi Yanai, Uniqlo Founder and Chairman, President & CEO of Fast Retailing. “But our admiration goes beyond entertainment. Her passion and engagement is evident in her contributions as a role model for women and her mentorship of emerging film and theatre artists, as well as her long standing commitment to humanitarian and environmental causes. Through our partnership, we will work together to make positive changes in the world around us.”
Clare Waight Keller, Uniqlo’s creative director since September, has previously worked with Blanchett during her tenure at Givenchy. Blanchett said, “Under Clare Waight Keller’s creative direction, the brand personifies enduring style — clever, beautiful, lasting clothing for every day.”
Blanchett said, “I value the ambition of Uniqlo to make life better through its Lifewear apparel: timeless design, perfected simplicity, affordable, accessible, quality clothing that lasts. I am energised by the opportunity to help Uniqlo advance important aspects of its Lifewear philosophy—supporting the next generation, playing a part in highlighting and combatting the ongoing global displacement crisis, giving back to communities, and finding meaningful ways to contribute to a more equitable world. On top of that, to creatively reconnect with Clare Waight Keller and to be in dialogue with Uniqlo global brand ambassador, Roger Federer, is a privilege indeed.”
Celebrated for her performances in Tár, Carol, Blue Jasmine, Elizabeth, and The Aviator, Blanchett is equally recognized for her impact behind the scenes. She has served as co-Artistic Director and co-CEO of the Sydney Theatre Company, and is co-founder of the production company Dirty Films. In fashion, she is widely considered a style icon and a frequent name on international best-dressed lists.
Her philanthropic résumé is equally robust. Blanchett serves as a global goodwill ambassador for the UNHCR, sits on the Earthshot Prize Council, and is the inaugural ambassador for Wakehurst’s Millennium Seed Bank. She also holds roles as a board member of the UK’s National Theatre, patron of the Sydney Film Festival and the NIDA Foundation, and supporter of causes including the Australian Conservation Foundation, the Actors Benevolent Fund, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, and the Australian Wildlife Conservancy.
With her global reach, humanitarian efforts, and deep cultural credibility, Blanchett represents a natural extension of Uniqlo’s evolving identity—one rooted in purpose as much as product.