Emilia Pérez faces fallout as Netflix distances itself from star

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The Oscar-nominated film Emilia Pérez has become the centre of a storm, and it’s not for cinematic brilliance.

The controversy surrounds Karla Sofía Gascón, the film’s lead actress, whose old social media posts have resurfaced. The tweets sparked outrage and derailed what was once a promising awards campaign.

KARLA SOFÍA GASCÓN’S OSCAR NOM FOR EMILIA PÉREZ

Gascón, the first transgender woman nominated for a Best Actress Oscar, had been riding high on the success of the Spanish-language musical, according to BBC.

Emilia Pérez, celebrated for its bold storytelling and representation, tells the story of a Mexican cartel boss transitioning into a new life as a woman

But everything changed when journalist Sarah Hagi unearthed Gascón’s offensive tweets from 2019 to 2024.

KARLA SOFÍA GASCÓN’S TWEETS

The posts included Islamophobic remarks, disparaging comments about George Floyd, and criticisms of diversity at the Oscars.

In one tweet, Gascón referred to Islam as “a bed of hatred that urgently needs to be cured.”

Another called George Floyd a “drug-addicted con artist.” These revelations have shocked Hollywood and audiences worldwide.

NETFLIX DISTANCES THEMSELVES FROM KARLA SOFÍA GASCÓN

Director Jacques Audiard quickly distanced himself from Gascón, according to The New York Times.

“What Karla Sofía said is inexcusable,” he said. “It’s hateful and deeply disappointing. I haven’t spoken to her since this came to light, nor do I intend to.”

He added that her actions were harming not just herself but also others involved in the project.

Netflix, which had heavily promoted Emilia Pérez as its best shot at winning a Best Picture Oscar, has also taken steps to distance itself.

The streaming giant removed Gascón from promotional materials and shifted focus to Zoe Saldaña, who plays a supporting role in the film.

KARLA SOFÍA GASCÓN AND NETFLIX

Reports suggest Netflix has even refused to cover Gascón’s travel expenses for awards season.

Gascón has apologised multiple times. In one statement, she said, “I deeply regret the pain my words have caused.

They were misinterpreted and do not reflect who I am.” However, her apologies have done little to quell the backlash. Critics argue that her remarks are too damaging to overlook.

The fallout has been swift and severe, according to CNN.

OSCAR NOMINATIONS FOR EMILIA PÉREZ

Due to the scandal, many Academy members are reportedly reconsidering their votes for Emilia Pérez. What was once a frontrunner with 13 nominations now faces an uncertain future.

Zoe Saldaña addressed the controversy delicately. “I stand against all forms of racism and bigotry,” she said in an interview. “This is a moment for reflection.”

This scandal serves as a reminder of how public figures can fall from grace in an age where social media leaves no stone unturned. It also raises questions about accountability and redemption in the entertainment industry.