Emilia Pérez star Karla Sofía Gascón to attend Oscars, report says, despite tweet controversy

Emilia Pérez lead actress Karla Sofía Gascón is gearing up to attend the 2025 Oscars, despite facing backlash for controversial posts on social media. The Oscar-nominated trans actor, nominated for best actress, is set to be present at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 2, with Netflix covering her expenses for the trip.

While details of her attendance at the Oscars are still being ironed out, including whether she will walk the red carpet or engage in interviews, sources suggest that Gascón will also make an appearance at the César Awards in Paris on Feb. 28, leading up to the Oscars ceremony.

Netflix and representatives for Gascón have not yet responded to requests for comments from CBC News. Gascón, who was removed from the Academy Award campaign for the film “Emilia Pérez” following her past offensive comments, made history as the first transgender performer to be nominated for the best actress Oscar, contributing to the film’s 13 nominations this year.

The controversy surrounding Gascón arose when old social media posts resurfaced, showcasing her derogatory remarks about Islam, George Floyd, and China. Gascón issued an apology through Netflix after journalist Sarah Hagi brought attention to the posts. Some of the posts date back to 2016, targeting Muslims’ culture and language, while also expressing negative views on Islam. Additionally, Gascón’s comments on George Floyd shortly after his death in 2020 stirred further backlash, characterizing him as a drug addict.

Despite the controversy, Gascón’s role in “Emilia Pérez” as a cartel kingpin and a woman navigating her transition has garnered critical acclaim. The film, with its leading star’s nomination, has been at the forefront of this year’s Oscars race. While past offensive remarks have derailed other celebrities in the past, there is hope that Gascón’s career will rebound following this incident, akin to the experiences of James Gunn, Trevor Noah, and Blake Shelton.

As Gascón prepares for the prestigious Oscars ceremony, all eyes will be on her as she navigates the red carpet and engages with the media, showcasing her resilience in the face of controversy. The journey leading up to the Oscars will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment in Gascón’s career, highlighting the complexities of fame and redemption in the entertainment industry.