‘Emilia Perez’ star Karla Sofia Gascon to attend Oscars despite controversy

She previously opted out of attending several awards season events, including the Screen Actors Guild Awards, where she was nominated both individually and as part of the film’s ensemble

Emilia Pérez star Karla Sofía Gascón is set to attend the Academy Awards this weekend, despite recent controversy over resurfaced social media posts. The actress, who is nominated for Best Actress, will travel to Los Angeles with Netflix covering her expenses, as is customary for studios supporting their nominees.

Gascón, the first openly transgender woman nominated in the Best Actress category, has largely remained out of the public eye in recent weeks. She previously opted out of attending several awards season events, including the Screen Actors Guild Awards, where she was nominated both individually and as part of the film’s ensemble.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Gascón expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I’m not sure how I feel, but I’m grateful to be back. I’m grateful to all those who’ve believed in me — to Netflix, the production company, and my colleagues. We can close this beautiful and difficult path that began three years ago,” she said.

The controversy surrounding Gascón arose after years-old tweets resurfaced, containing racially charged remarks about Black people, immigrants, and Islam. She has since apologised and announced earlier this month that she would step back from the film’s Oscar campaign to allow Emilia Pérez to stand on its own.

Directed by Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez follows a cartel leader (Gascón) who enlists a lawyer (Zoe Saldaña) to help stage their disappearance and begin a new life as their true self. The film leads this year’s Academy Award nominations with 13 nods.

Gascón’s return to the awards circuit will be closely watched, with her attendance at the March 2 ceremony marking her first major public appearance since the controversy.

Published - February 25, 2025 10:39 am IST