(CNN) - Rudy Giuliani received a boost Wednesday when Robert Duvall declared he would back the former New York City mayor's presidential bid. Duvall's endorsement came hours before another famous actor, Fred Thompson, announced he was seeking the White House.
"Rudy has consistently proven he's ready to confront tough challenges," Duvall said in a statement released by Giuliani's presidential campaign. "I don't normally get involved in politics, but I think the stakes are too high this election. Mayor Giuliani has the executive experience, proven record and bold vision needed to lead our country. Luciana and I are proud to support him."
Duvall has appeared in such blockbuster hits as "The Godfather," "The Godfather: Part II" and "Apocalypse Now." He won an Academy Award for his role in Tender Mercies.
Giuliani's campaign also noted that Duvall would be holding a fundraiser for the GOP presidential hopeful in the near future.
Thompson, meanwhile, joined eight other Republicans in declaring that he would seek the Republican presidential nomination after testing the waters for several months. The former Tennessee senator and actor skipped a GOP presidential debate in New Hampshire to make the announcement on "The Tonight Show." He is scheduled to provide a longer explanation as to why he is jumping in the race in a video to be posted on his website at midnight.
- CNN Political Editor Mark Preston