Zoe Saldaña, the acclaimed actress nominated for her first Academy Award for her role in Emilia Pérez, has recently found herself navigating a complex situation involving her co-star, Karla Sofía Gascón. Following the revelation of Gascón’s controversial social media posts, which included Islamophobic remarks and criticism of George Floyd, Saldaña has expressed her feelings and the need to process the unfolding events.
A Moment of Achievement
Saldaña’s nomination for Best Supporting Actress marks a significant milestone in her career, especially as Emilia Pérez garnered 13 nominations, making it the most-nominated film of the year. Despite this personal achievement, the joy of recognition has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Gascón. The situation escalated when journalist Sarah Hagi shared Gascón’s past comments, prompting a public discourse that shifted the focus from the film’s accomplishments to the problematic views expressed by one of its stars.
Saldaña’s Response
During her appearance on Variety’s Awards Circuit podcast, Saldaña candidly shared her disappointment regarding Gascón’s comments. “I’m very sad. I’m also disappointed,” she stated, emphasizing that she cannot condone Gascón’s actions. Saldaña highlighted the collaborative spirit of the Emilia Pérez cast and crew, noting their commitment to inclusivity and equality. Her remarks reflect a deep sense of responsibility and care for the values that the film represents.
Taking a measured approach, Saldaña mentioned that she is “taking it day by day” and that the joy of her nomination is slowly returning. She acknowledged the support she has received from fans and colleagues amid the controversy, indicating her resilience in the face of adversity. Saldaña stressed the importance of taking time to process the situation, stating, “This isn’t something that we have to figure out immediately.”
Gascón’s Apology and Backlash
Karla Sofía Gascón, who recently made history as the first openly transgender actress nominated for an Oscar, has faced significant backlash following the resurfacing of her past comments. In response to the controversy, she issued an apology during an interview with CNN en Español, asserting, “I have not committed any crime nor have I harmed anyone.” Gascón has maintained her stance, stating that she cannot step down from the Oscars race despite the criticism.
French director Jacques Audiard, who directed Emilia Pérez, distanced himself from Gascón, expressing disappointment and concern over her comments. “I haven’t spoken to her, and I don’t want to,” he stated, emphasizing that Gascón needs space to reflect on her actions. His comments underline the impact that Gascón’s remarks have had on the film’s overall reputation and the relationships formed during its production.
Industry Impact
As the Academy Awards approach, the fallout from Gascón’s comments continues to affect the film’s Oscar campaign. Netflix, the studio behind Emilia Pérez, is reportedly distancing itself from Gascón while navigating the controversy. Although Gascón was expected to attend several high-profile events leading up to the Oscars, sources indicate she will no longer participate in those engagements.
Gascón recently shared a new apology on social media, expressing her desire for the film to be appreciated for its artistic merit rather than overshadowed by her past actions. She concluded her statement by apologizing to those hurt by her comments.
Conclusion
Zoe Saldaña’s experience amid the controversy surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón’s comments highlights the complexities of navigating personal achievements in the face of public scrutiny. As Saldaña continues to process the situation, the industry watches closely, understanding that the path to recognition can often be fraught with challenges. The upcoming Academy Awards will not only reflect individual talents but also the broader cultural conversations that shape the entertainment landscape today.
