Julia Roberts will receive the Spotlight Award at this year's Palm Springs International Film Festival.

The 'August: Osage County' actress will be honoured for her role in the poignant new drama, which co-stars fellow Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep.

The 46-year-old star will pick up her award in Palm Springs, California, on January 4 as part of the week-long festival, which takes place between January 3 and January 13.

Festival chairman Harold Matzner said in a statement: ''Julia Roberts is a consummate actress with a range as vast as her talent. Her ability to consistently give standout performances over the past 25 years is remarkable.''

Past award winners include Jessica Chastain, Amy Adams and Helen Hunt.

It was previously announced that '12 Years a Slave' director Steve McQueen will be honoured at the ceremony with the Director of the Year prize. Meanwhile, 'Gravity' star Sandra Bullock will take home the Best Actress award, and Matthew McConaughey will also be honoured for his role in 'Dallas Buyers Club'.

Roberts shot to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with roles in 'Mystic Pizza', 'Steel Magnolias' and 'Pretty Woman'.

The actress earned an Oscar for her role in 'Erin Brockovich' and has also starred in movies such as 'My Best Friend's Wedding' and 'Eat Pray Love'.