- Netflix distances from Gascón
- Controversial posts spark backlash
- Awards campaign shifts focus
Netflix is taking a step back from promoting Karla Sofía Gascón in its awards campaign for 'Emilia Pérez' after her controversial social media posts ignited backlash. The Spanish actress, who made history as the first openly transgender woman nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars, is facing criticism for offensive remarks she made about Muslims and George Floyd. Reports from 'Variety' and 'The Hollywood Reporter' confirm that the streaming service is no longer supporting Gascón's participation in upcoming award events, including the Critics Choice Awards and the Directors Guild of America.
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Netflix distances from Gascón
Sources indicate that Netflix has ceased direct communication with Gascón and will not fund her travel and styling for the awards season. Additionally, promotional materials previously featuring Gascón will now highlight her co-stars, such as Selena Gomez and Adriana Paz, who were not nominated. This shift comes as the film received 13 Oscar nominations, yet Gascón's Best Actress nod was notably absent from the "For Your Consideration" campaign shared by 'Variety's' Clayton Davis.
Controversial posts spark backlash
The controversy stems from resurfaced tweets by Gascón from 2020 and 2021. These posts included derogatory remarks about Muslims, referring to Islam as an "infection for humanity" and describing Muslim migration to Spain as a "planned invasion." Gascón also made inflammatory comments about George Floyd, suggesting that "very few people ever cared" about him. Following the backlash, Gascón deactivated her social media account, citing a desire to protect her family from "hate and misinformation."
Awards campaign shifts focus
Despite the uproar, Gascón remains in the running for her Oscar nomination. However, Netflix's decision to distance itself signifies a significant change in its awards strategy. Gascón's co-star, Zoe Saldaña, expressed her disapproval of the posts during a Q&A session, stating she was "still processing" her feelings. In a tearful interview with 'CNN' En Español, Gascón lamented her experience with "cancel culture" but maintained her intent to continue her Oscar campaign. Reports confirm that Netflix was neither involved in nor informed about this interview.
