Netflix Distances Itself from ‘Emilia Perez’ Star Over Offensive Posts
Star of "Emilia Perez" Dropped from Netflix’s Oscars Campaign
LOS ANGELES: Netflix has dropped Karla Sofia Gascon, the star of "Emilia Perez," from its high-profile Oscars campaign and distanced itself from the best actress nominee over her offensive social media posts, Hollywood trade outlets reported Tuesday.
Offensive Posts Emerge
Images of Gascon, who made history as the first openly transgender acting nominee in Academy Awards history, had adorned posters, billboards, and advertisements for the musical film, which earned 13 Oscar nods – more than any other movie this year. However, old social media posts were uncovered and widely shared last week, in which Gascon called Islam "an infection" and "deeply disgusting."
Gascon’s Controversial Statements
The Spanish star, 52, also denigrated or mocked wide-ranging subjects, including diversity efforts, China, and George Floyd, the Black man whose 2020 killing by police spurred massive protests. She initially apologized in a statement issued via Netflix and deactivated her account on X, formerly Twitter, but soon reversed course by defending herself publicly.
Netflix’s Response
The Hollywood Reporter and Variety said streaming giant Netflix, which has invested heavily in hopes that "Emilia Perez" will provide its first ever best picture Oscar win, has now dropped Gascon from all campaign efforts. A Netflix web page promoting the film "for your awards consideration" on Tuesday contained an image of Zoe Saldana, the movie’s best supporting actress nominee.
No Public Comment from Netflix
Contacted by AFP, Netflix declined to publicly comment. Gascon will no longer attend events, including Friday’s Critics Choice Awards gala, as scheduled, according to trade magazines.
"Emilia Perez" Controversies
"Emilia Perez" tells the story of a Mexican drug cartel boss who transitions to life as a woman and turns her back on crime. The film had previously received criticism for its depictions of Mexico and its drug war, its representation of trans issues, and its use of artificial intelligence to increase Gascon’s voice range in musical scenes.
Controversy and the Oscars
Controversy has not always prevented films from going on to enjoy success at the Oscars. "Green Book," a drama based on the real-life story of a Black musician and his white driver in the 1960s Deep South, was widely condemned for perpetuating "white savior" stereotypes. It went on to win best picture.
FAQs
Q: Why did Netflix drop Karla Sofia Gascon from its Oscars campaign?
A: Netflix dropped Gascon due to her offensive social media posts, which included discriminatory and derogatory language.
Q: What were the offensive posts about?
A: The posts included derogatory comments about Islam, diversity efforts, China, and George Floyd.
Q: Will Karla Sofia Gascon still attend the Oscars?
A: Gascon will no longer attend events, including the Critics Choice Awards gala, as scheduled.