Richard Jenkins Calls Oscar Nom 'Unexpected Honor'

Copyright 2008 Bryan Bedder / Getty Images

Actor Richard Jenkins, best known for his role as the deceased father on HBO's "Six Feet Under," is up for a Best Leading Actor nomination for his role as Professor Walter Vale in 'The Visitor' -- and ET has his reaction.

"This nomination is such an unexpected honor and I am grateful to the Academy for the recognition," Jenkins said. " I've been awed by the work of my fellow nominees this year and am truly humbled to be in their company."

In 'The Visitor,' Jenkins plays a widowed college professor who attends a conference in New York City only to find a young couple living in his apartment as illegal immigrants.

"Having been an actor for many years now, I am moved by the fact that something like this can happen at this point in my career, particularly for a film that has meant so much to me."

The 81st Academy Awards will air on ABC, Sunday, February 22 and will take place at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles. ET has all the Oscar reactions -- keep checking back here for more from this year's nominees.

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