MUMBAI: Mariah Carey will receive the breakthrough performance award at the 21st Palm Springs International Film Festival in January. She will receive the award at the 21st Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival.

The singer-and-actress will receive the coveted honour in recognition of her portrayal of a dowdy social worker in Precious.

Said Festival chairman Harold Matzner, "We're delighted to be able to present the Breakthrough Performance Award to the extraordinary, very beautiful and versatile Mariah Carey, who, in a critically acclaimed role, completely transformed herself from a glamorous music icon to a forthright social worker for the role of Ms. Weiss in Precious."

Earlier winners of the prize include Jennifer Hudson, Marion Cotillard and Freida Pinto, who all went on to win an Oscar for their performances.