Academy Awards 2012: Nominees' reactions

1 of 15: Michelle Williams was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress in a Lead Role for 'My Week With Marilyn.'

Upon learning news she had been nominated, Williams said in a statement: '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. This role has been the challenge and privilege of a lifetime. I would like to think that the recognition our film has received by the Academy is a testament to Marilyn's legacy.'

'My Week with Marilyn' is based on the week that British writer Colin Clark worked as Monroe's assistant while she was filming 'The Prince and the Showgirl' in the United Kingdom in the summer of 1956. Michelle Williams plays the late Hollywood sex icon, while British actor Eddie Redmayne plays Clark. The movie also stars Emma Watson, who plays Hermione in the 'Harry Potter' films.

The film earned two Oscar nods for the 2012 Academy Awards, including a Best Supporting Actor nod for Kenneth Branagh.

The 31-year-old actress has been nominated for three Oscar Awards and recently took home the Best Actress - Comedy or Musical Golden Globe for her role in the film.

The actress has a daughter, Matilda, with late actor Heath Ledger. The two co-starred in the 2005 movie 'Brokeback Mountain,' which earned the actress her first Golden Globe and Oscar nominations.

Williams rose to fame playing Jen on the teen drama series 'Dawson's Creek.' In 2010, she starred with Ryan Gosling in the R-rated 'Blue Valentine,' which also earned her Oscar and Golden Globe Award nominations.

Williams recently filmed the movie 'Tar,' which stars James Franco as author C.K. Williams. She also recently filmed the fantasy flick, 'Oz: The Great and Powerful,' where the actress plays the witch Glinda, while James Franco plays the title role of the wizard. The movie also stars Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz and is set for release on March 8, 2013.

(Pictured: Michelle Williams appears in a still from 'My Week with Marilyn.') (BBC Films / The Weinstein Company)