Rooney Mara 'Surprised and Excited' About Her First Oscar Nomination

Tue, 24 January 2012 23:21:33 ET

Getting a nomination for Best Actress at 2012 Academy Awards, the leading lady of 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)' says, 'I wasn't expecting it.'

Rooney Mara has nabbed her first Academy Awards nomination. Receiving a nod for Actress in a Leading Role at 2012 Oscars, the Lisbeth Salander of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)" says, "I knew it was happening this morning I just didn't want to wake up for it because I wasn't expecting it. I was really surprised and excited."

In order to win the title, 26-year-old Rooney has to defeat four other strong rivals. She competes against "Albert Nobbs" actress Glenn Close, "The Help" leading lady Viola Davis, "The Iron Lady" star Meryl Streep, and "My Week with Marilyn" beauty Michelle Williams.

Williams has reacted to the noms announcement as well. She says, "I am so grateful to be acknowledged by the Academy for my work, which was made possible by the support of our director Simon Curtis and the camaraderie of a terrific ensemble of actors-a special congratulations to Kenneth Branagh-and the fearless Harvey Weinstein."

31-year-old Williams additionally gushes, "This role has been the challenge and privilege of a lifetime." The movie beauty goes on, "I would like to think that the recognition our film as received by the Academy is a testament to Marilyn [Monroe]'s legacy."

In addition to Rooney, "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" leading man Gary Oldman also receives his first nomination at the Oscars. The 53-year-old British actor lands a nod for Actor in a Leading Role, facing off the likes of Demian Bichir, George Clooney, as well as Jean Dujardin and Brad Pitt.

The nominations for the 84th annual Academy Awards were announced by Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences president Tom Sherak with the help of Jennifer Lawrence on Tuesday morning, January 24. The winners, meanwhile, will be unveiled in a ceremony hosted by Billy Crystal and held at the Kodak Theatre, Los Angeles, on February 26. The event will be aired on ABC at 7 P.M. ET.

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