Emilia Pérez star Karla Sofía Gascón is not expected to attend the BAFTA Film Awards following the revelation of her racially insensitive X/Twitter posts. Nominated for Leading Actress, Gascón’s absence from the guest list suggests she will skip Sunday’s ceremony, making it a significant moment as she was the first openly trans actress nominated for a BAFTA Film Award. The BAFTAs, being one of the highest-profile events, adds weight to her decision to withdraw, particularly as she has also missed the Critics Choice Awards, PGA Awards, and the Goya Awards.
Despite efforts to reach out, both Netflix and Gascón’s representatives have not provided any comments on her situation. Meanwhile, other nominees like Zoe Saldaña and Selena Gomez, who are competing for Supporting Actress, are confirmed to attend the Royal Festival Hall event in London, where they will also present awards.
In a recent statement, Gascón expressed her choice to withdraw from the awards trail, stating that she wishes to let her work speak for itself. She mentioned, “I sincerely apologize to everyone who has been hurt along the way,” highlighting her desire to allow the film to be recognized for its merit rather than personal headlines.
This controversy stems from Gascón’s previously unearthed social media comments by journalist Sarah Hagi, which included disparaging remarks about Islam, a derogatory description of George Floyd, and criticisms of the Oscars as an “ugly” festival. Additionally, Gascón questioned historical perspectives on World War II, expressing a shocking view that seemed to downplay the horrors faced by Jewish people under Hitler’s regime, along with using offensive language that translates unfavorably in English.
The backlash against Gascón appears severe, as she was anticipated to be a trailblazer as a transgender award-winner for her role portraying a transitioning drug lord in Emilia Pérez. As the BAFTAs approach, the guest list is expected to feature prominent nominees such as Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo for Wicked, Timothée Chalamet for A Complete Unknown, and Colman Domingo for Sing Sing, all of whom are to be present on this prestigious occasion.
Adding to the event’s significance, Mark Hamill, along with other presenters like Pamela Anderson and Lupita Nyong’o, will hand out awards during the ceremony. The performers for the night include Take That and Jeff Goldblum, who is set to play piano for the In Memoriam section. With David Tennant hosting for the second consecutive year, the BAFTA Film Awards will take place on Sunday, February 16, at 7 PM on BBC One and iPlayer, promising a night full of recognition for film talents amidst this overshadowing controversy.
The fallout from Karla Sofía Gascón’s past comments raises critical questions about accountability and the responsibilities of public figures in the entertainment industry. As the industry continues to evolve, the impact of Gascón’s actions may influence future discussions surrounding inclusivity and representation in award ceremonies, highlighting the need for sensitivity and understanding in public discourse.
