Spike Lee makes history as first-ever black president of the Cannes Film Festival jury

Cape Town -  Spike Lee has made history as the first black filmmaker to preside over the Cannes Film Festival jury.

The acclaimed filmmaker has premiered seven films at the festival. 

"Welcome to Spike Lee as President of the Jury of the 73rd Festival de Cannes! Cannes is a natural homeland for those who (re)awaken minds. Lee's flamboyant personality is sure to shake things up, "Cannes Film Festival tweeted on Tuesday. 

According to BBC in response to his Cannes role, the 62-year-old said in a statement that he was honoured to be the "first person of the African diaspora (USA)" to be named president of the Cannes jury.

He also called Cannes "the most important film festival in the world" and said it had a great impact on his career. 

The announcement comes after the Oscars received criticism over their lack of diversity as white men continued to dominate in top categories.

Compiled by Graye Morkel