Netflix‘s film Emilia Pérez has garnered significant attention, both positive and negative, as it rides the wave of 13 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. However, controversy surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón, the film’s Best Actress nominee, has cast a shadow over the campaign. Gascón, 52, has faced backlash after old racist and anti-Muslim tweets resurfaced, leading to speculation about her involvement in upcoming awards events. Despite this, Netflix continues to campaign for the film, though it appears to be distancing itself from the actress.
At the American Film Institute‘s annual lunch, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos notably sat with Erin Foster, creator of Netflix’s hit series Nobody Wants This, rather than with the Emilia Pérez team. This seating arrangement sparked chatter among attendees.
“In 40 years in this business, I’ve never seen a debacle like Emilia Pérez,” remarked a seasoned Hollywood insider, highlighting the challenges the film faces in its Oscar campaign.
The controversy has also raised questions about Gascón’s presence at upcoming events such as the SAG Awards and the Oscars. Netflix reportedly did not fund her travel from Spain for key promotional activities. “Do you think [the Screen Actors Guild] is going to let her through the door on the red carpet?” one insider speculated. “If she was smart she wouldn’t go to the Oscars, which is really, really so woke.” While Gascón remains represented by UTA, sources confirm she is seeking crisis management support.
Gascón’s future at SAG and Oscars uncertain
Meanwhile, Netflix has maintained its efforts to promote the film and its other stars. Zoe Saldaña and co-stars Adriana Paz and Édgar Ramírez joined director Jacques Audiard at the AFI lunch, where they were seated with Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s chief content officer. A source close to the film noted that Sarandos moved between tables throughout the event and emphasized that seating arrangements had been planned well in advance.
Despite the turmoil surrounding Gascón, Emilia Pérez has been celebrated for its artistic achievements. The film won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy in January, with Gascón delivering a tearful acceptance speech. However, her recent appearance on CNN en Español to deny accusations of racism has done little to quell the controversy.
As Netflix continues to campaign for all 13 nominations, one insider lamented the situation: “It’s so sad and horrible for all the people that made that film.” Netflix has not commented publicly on the matter.