Oscar Nominee Karla Sofía Gascón Addresses Controversy Over Past Racist Posts

Karla Sofía Gascón, an Oscar-nominated actress, has been the center of a controversy due to her past racist internet posts. As the storm of criticism continues to swirl around her, Gascón, renowned for her role in “Emilia Pérez,” has offered yet another apology. In her newest statement, she expressed hope that her silence will enable audiences to appreciate the film for its true essence – a heartfelt tribute to love and diversity.

This latest apology follows comments made by Jacques Audiard, the film’s director, in a recent interview. Audiard distanced himself from Gascón, the best actress contender, admitting he had not been in contact with her and labeling her actions as “self-destructive.”

Gascón took to Instagram on Thursday evening to share her thoughts. “Following Jacques’ interview, which I understand, I made the decision to let the film speak for itself. I did this for the film, for Jacques, for the cast, and for the remarkable crew who deserve it. I also did it for the wonderful journey we all embarked on together. I hope my silence will allow the film to be appreciated for its true essence, a beautiful ode to love and diversity”. The post was accompanied by a photograph from the Cannes premiere of “Emilia Pérez,” showcasing Gascón in solidarity with her co-stars. She extended a heartfelt apology to everyone who may have been hurt by her actions.

Until now, Gascón has not chosen silence as a strategy to navigate her controversy. Just last week, culture writer Sarah Hagi revealed numerous offensive posts made by the actress in recent years. These posts included anti-Muslim hate speech, a conversation about George Floyd’s murder, and racist comments about diversity at the Oscars.

Backlash and Consequences

As the backlash against Gascón grew, the “Emilia Pérez” lead actress opted to appear in a CNN en Español interview. However, she did this without consulting Netflix or PR firm The Lede Company, both of which had been steering the film’s awards campaign. Reports later emerged that Netflix had stopped funding Gascón’s travel to award shows and her styling for any appearances at such events.

Director’s Disappointment

In an interview with Deadline, Audiard expressed his disappointment, saying, “I haven’t spoken to her, and I don’t want to. She is in a self-destructive approach that I can’t interfere in, and I really don’t understand why she’s continuing. Why is she harming herself? Why? I don’t understand it, and what I don’t understand about this too is why she’s harming people who were very close to her.”

“Emilia Pérez” Receives Numerous Oscar Nominations

Despite the controversy surrounding Gascón, “Emilia Pérez” has been highly acclaimed. The film leads the Oscar nominations this year with 13 nods, including best picture, best director for Audiard, best actress for Gascón, and supporting actress for Zoe Saldaña.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the controversy surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón?

Gascón has come under fire for several racist internet posts from her past. She has since apologized and hopes that her silence will allow the film “Emilia Pérez” to be appreciated for its true essence.

What was the reaction of the film’s director to the controversy?

Director Jacques Audiard distanced himself from Gascón following the controversy. He called her actions “self-destructive” and stated that he had not been in contact with her.

How has the controversy affected Gascón’s involvement in award shows?

Following the backlash, Netflix stopped funding Gascón’s travel to award shows and her styling for any appearances at these events.

Despite the controversy, how has “Emilia Pérez” performed in award nominations?

“Emilia Pérez” is the most-nominated film at this year’s Oscars, with 13 nominations including nods for best picture, best director for Audiard best actress for Gascón and Zoe Saldaña for supporting actress.

Credit: variety.com