Watch Cate Blanchett’s Touching Tribute To Philip Seymour Hoffman

Last night's BAFTAs, which are essentially the British Oscars, were the first major award show held since the untimely death of Philip Seymour Hoffman two weeks ago. So, it wasn't a question of if someone would pay respect to the late, great actor, but rather who? The likely candidates were Cate Blanchett and Amy Adams, both of whom were close friends of Hoffman's and who attended his funeral in New York last week.

So, when Blanchett won the award for Best Actress for her performance in Blue Jasmine, the entire room, as well as those of us watching at home, did so with Kleenex in hand. Fighting back tears, Blanchett dedicated the award to Hoffman, whom she called a "monumental talent" and a "continual and profound touchstone."

"Phil, your monumental talent, your unflinching quest for truth both in art and in life will be missed by so many people," she continued. "You raised the bar continually. Phil, buddy, this is for you, you bastard. Hope you're proud." Blanchett and Hoffman first worked together in The Talented Mr. Ripley and remained close friends ever since. Hoffman also directed a play written by Blanchett's husband, Andrew Upton, so needless to say the couple was very close to the actor.

With her win last night, Blanchett is now a virtual lock to take home Best Actress on Oscar night, and it will be interesting to see if she pays tribute to Hoffman once more. The Oscars airs March 2. (The Daily Mail)