Netflix has distanced itself from actress Karla Sofía Gascón amid controversy over her past social media posts. The Spanish actress, who gained widespread recognition for her role in Emilia Pérez, has faced backlash for remarks that have been labeled ‘Islamophobic’ and ‘racist.’
Gascón, who made history as the first openly transgender actress to receive a Best Actress nomination at the Academy Awards, was initially set to participate in promotional events leading up to the Oscars. However, following the resurfacing of controversial tweets, Netflix has taken significant steps to cut ties with her during the awards season.
The controversy stems from social media posts that Gascón made between 2020 and 2021. These posts, now deleted, included remarks on Islam, George Floyd, and diversity at the Oscars, which many deemed offensive. Additionally, her comments extended to other religious groups, further fueling criticism.
As the award season progresses, these past statements have sparked renewed debate, with many in the entertainment industry calling for accountability. The controversy has put Gascón’s historic Oscar nomination under scrutiny, overshadowing her achievements in Emilia Pérez.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix has taken strict action by excluding Gascón from major entertainment industry events, including:
The AFI Awards Luncheon
The Critics Choice Awards
The Directors Guild of America Awards
The Producers Guild of America Awards
Beyond event exclusions, Netflix has also suspended direct communication with Gascón. The company is now only interacting with her through her agent, Jeremy Barber of United Talent Agency.
Furthermore, all financial support for her Oscars campaign—including travel expenses, styling, and accommodations—has been revoked. If Gascón decides to attend any award events, she will have to cover all costs personally.
Despite Emilia Pérez securing 13 Oscar nominations, Gascón has been noticeably absent from the film’s promotional materials. A recent For Your Consideration advertisement featured co-stars Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, and Adriana Paz but omitted Gascón’s image, despite her being the film’s lead actress.
This move indicates a significant shift in Netflix’s approach, as the streaming giant attempts to manage the backlash without harming the film’s Oscar prospects.
In response to the controversy, Gascón addressed the situation in a social media post, sharing her thoughts on cancel culture and self-discovery.
“I have been transparent because I have nothing to hide. During that time, I felt lost in my transition, seeking approval in the eyes of others. But today, I finally know who I am. I only seek the freedom to exist without fear, to create art without barriers, and to move forward with my new life,” she wrote.
Her statement reflects her struggle with personal identity while navigating the consequences of her past comments.
The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, 2025. Viewers in India can catch the event live on March 3, 2025. With Gascón’s participation in the Oscars campaign uncertain, it remains to be seen whether she will make an appearance at the prestigious ceremony.