Actress CATE BLANCHETT and her screenwriter husband ANDREW UPTON are expecting their first child late this year (01).

Blanchett, 32, who was nominated for an Oscar in 1999 for her portrayal of QUEEN ELIZABETH I in ELIZABETH (1998), is currently filming shipping News,The (2001), also starring KEVIN SPACEY, in Canada's Newfoundland.

A statement released by Australian star's publicist this morning (1JUN01) says, "It was a wonderful surprise and we couldn't be happier. "It has been a busy couple of years for us, and it looks like things have just got busier, which is great. "

The statement says Blanchett and Upton are "thrilled" to confirm they are "expecting their first child in late 2001". Blanchett's publicist declined to give further details. (NFA/WNWCYA/ES)

Source: WENN