Netflix removes Karla Gascón from Emilia Pérez Oscar campaign after Islamophobic tweet controversy
Netflix is keeping a strategic distance from Emilia Pérez star Karla Sofía Gascón following backlash over her past Islamophobic and racist tweets.
The Spanish actor, who recently made history as the first openly transgender performer nominated for Best Actress at the Academy Awards, is now without the support of the streaming giant or her PR team, per Variety.
Less than two weeks ago, Emilia Pérez, and by default, Gascón, were thriving with 13 Oscar nominations, including Best Actress, making up the most Oscar nods for any movie this year and one short of the all-time record.
Gascón was set to attend a string of prestigious industry events in Los Angeles, including the AFI Awards luncheon, Critics Choice Awards, and Producers Guild of America Awards.
However, sources have revealed to the publication that she is no longer expected at any of them. Netflix and her PR agency, The Lede Company, have also cut direct communication with Gascón. Her representation is now solely being handled by her agent at the United Talent Agency. Netflix has reportedly also ceased covering her travel expenses and styling costs.
A new For Your Consideration advertisement released Monday celebrated Emilia Pérez’s 13 Oscar nominations — including Best Picture and Best International Feature — but omitted Gascón’s name and image. Instead, the marketing prominently featured Gascón’s co-stars Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, and Adriana Paz.
The film’s official Oscar campaign webpage similarly excluded any visuals of Gascón, suggesting Netflix is working to salvage the film’s chances without allowing the controversy surrounding its lead actor to overshadow the achievements of the cast and crew.
The industry response, on the other hand, has been mixed, according to Variety. While some Oscar voters believe the controversy will have no bearing on their decision, others argue that it has left a “bad taste” and could significantly impact Emilia Pérez’s chances.
Gascón has issued multiple apologies, including a CNN en Español interview and an Instagram post decrying “cancel culture.”
As the Oscars draw closer, the question remains: will Gascón attend the ceremony? While she has an open invitation as a nominee, sources suggest Netflix has yet to engage in discussions about facilitating her attendance.
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