Oscar Nominee Backlash

Netflix has taken a significant step back from Emilia Perez star Karla Sofía Gascón as the actor faces growing criticism over resurfaced tweets that have reignited controversy just weeks before the Academy Awards.

Gascón, 52, made history as the first openly transgender actor nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars for her portrayal of a crime boss in the polarizing Netflix musical. However, her awards campaign has been overshadowed by backlash to past social media posts, some of which have been labeled offensive. The posts, made over the last five years, included remarks about George Floyd, Islam, and diversity at the Academy Awards.

In response, Gascón has repeatedly apologized, most notably in an hour-long interview on CNN en Español, where she tearfully defended herself. “I am not a racist,” she told interviewer Juan Carlos Arciniegas, expressing regret over her past comments and attempting to clarify her stance.

Despite her efforts, Netflix has reportedly begun distancing itself from the actor. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the streaming giant has quietly removed Gascón from promotional emails and is revising marketing materials to give co-star Zoe Saldana greater prominence. Additionally, Netflix has opted not to cover Gascón’s travel expenses or styling costs for upcoming industry events.

As a result, Gascón will no longer attend key pre-Oscar gatherings in Los Angeles, including the AFI Awards luncheon, the Critics Choice Awards, and the Directors Guild of America Awards. Originally set to fly in from Spain, the actor’s absence marks a stark shift in the film’s promotional efforts.

While Emilia Perez continues to generate buzz for its unconventional storytelling, Gascón’s controversy has added an unexpected layer of complexity to its awards season narrative. With the Oscars approaching, it remains to be seen how this situation will impact both the film’s reception and the industry’s response to the actor’s nomination.