Karla Sofía Gascón, a best actress nominee for her role in the acclaimed film Emilia Pérez, has found herself at the center of a controversy that threatens the film's awards season prospects. A series of tweets made by Gascón between 2019 and 2024 have sparked significant backlash, leaving the film's awards campaign in turmoil. Her comments on Islam, George Floyd, and the Oscars' diversity have drawn widespread criticism and led to a distancing from both her colleagues and Netflix, which distributed the film.
In light of the controversy, Gascón recently announced via Instagram that she intends to step back, allowing "the work to talk for itself." This decision follows several statements and interviews she has given since the fallout began. Meanwhile, an updated For Your Consideration (FYC) poster released on Monday has notably minimized her presence, highlighting co-stars Zoe Saldaña and Selena Gomez instead. Saldaña has publicly condemned Gascón's remarks, emphasizing her commitment to inclusivity and collaboration within the film industry.
"It makes me really sad because I don't support [it], and I don't have any tolerance for any negative rhetoric towards people of any group." – Zoe Saldaña
Netflix has taken steps to distance itself from Gascón's remarks, ceasing direct communication with her and opting to liaise through her agent instead. The Academy's decision to abandon the "Fab Five" format in acting categories this year further isolates Gascón, as no actress will be publicly required to commend her performance during the awards ceremony. Gascón has also withdrawn from several upcoming awards events, opting for a lower profile amid the controversy.
Director Jacques Audiard, who helmed Emilia Pérez, has voiced his disapproval of Gascón's tweets and confirmed that he is no longer in contact with her.
"Very unfortunately, it is taking up all the space, and that makes me very sad" – Jacques Audiard
"Right now she needs space to reflect and take accountability for her actions" – Jacques Audiard
Saldaña, during her speech at the London Critics Circle Awards, urged the audience to approach redemption abstractly. She expressed disappointment over the situation but maintained a focus on the positive experiences she shared with the film's cast and crew.
"I can only attest to the experience that I had with each and every individual that was a part, that is a part, of this film, and my experience and my interactions with them was about inclusivity and collaboration and racial, cultural and gender equity. And it just saddens me." – Zoe Saldaña
Gascón has expressed regret over the situation, offering apologies to those affected by her words. She maintains that she is not racist and claims many of her comments were taken out of context.
"I sincerely apologise to everyone who has been hurt along the way." – Karla Sofía Gascón
"I am not racist and that many of my comments had been taken out of context." – Karla Sofía Gascón
"Deeply sorry to those I have caused pain" – Karla Sofía Gascón
The controversy surrounding Gascón could jeopardize Emilia Pérez's chances of securing a Best Picture win at the Oscars. Despite its impressive 13 nominations, industry insiders believe the film's prospects may be hindered by the lack of a clear frontrunner for Best Picture this year. The public relations team for Emilia Pérez has not authorized recent interviews with Gascón, suggesting a deliberate move by Netflix to distance itself from her controversial statements.
As the Oscars approach on March 2nd, it remains uncertain whether Gascón will attend the ceremony. The unfolding situation highlights the complex dynamics of accountability and reputation management in Hollywood's awards season landscape.
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