John Travolta receives lifetime honor at Cannes, calls it ‘greater than an Oscar’

Hollywood actor John Travolta has received the honorary Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The award was announced unexpectedly before the premiere of his directorial debut, 'Propeller One-Way Night Coach' on Friday night.

The 72-year-old actor cried with emotion after receiving the trophy. Controlling himself, he said, 'This is bigger than an Oscar for me.' He added in French, 'I am completely surprised, I can't believe it, I never imagined it.' He thanked Cannes director Thierry Fremaux and said, 'This is a humbling moment for me.'

It is worth noting that 'The Lord of the Rings' director Peter Jackson and actress and singer Barbara Streisand were previously announced as recipients of the lifetime achievement award at this year's festival. However, Travolta's name was kept secret until the end. Although he has been nominated twice for the Best Actor category at the Oscars, the award is still elusive.

Travolta's 'Propeller One-Way Night Coach' is an adventure film based on a 1997 children's novel he wrote himself. It stars himself and his daughter Ella Blue Travolta. Ella Blue was by her father's side at the premiere. The film will be released on Apple TV on May 29.