Zoe Saldana breaks silence on ‘Emilia Perez’ co-star Karla Sofia Gascon controversy

This image released by Netflix shows Karla Sofía Gascón, right, and Zoe Saldaña in a scene from ‘Emilia Pérez’
| Photo Credit: SHANNA BESSON

Zoe Saldana has spoken out regarding the backlash against her Emilia Perez co-star, Karla Sofia Gascon, following the resurfacing of Gascon’s controversial past social media posts. During a Q&A session in London, Saldana addressed the situation, expressing her sadness and emphasizing the importance of inclusivity.

“I’m still processing everything that has transpired in the last couple of days, and I’m sad. It makes me really sad because I don’t support it, and I don’t have any tolerance for any negative rhetoric towards people of any group,” Saldana said.

The actress reflected on her experience working with the Emilia Perez cast, highlighting the film’s message of diversity and equity. “I can only attest to the experience that I had with each and every individual that was a part, that is a part, of this film, and my experience and my interactions with them was about inclusivity and collaboration and racial, cultural, and gender equity,” she added.

Gascon, who made history as the first openly trans actor to receive an Oscar nomination, faced intense criticism after journalist Sarah Hagi resurfaced several of her 2020 and 2021 tweets. The posts included offensive remarks about Islam, George Floyd, and diversity in the Oscars. Amid mounting backlash, Gascon deactivated her X (formerly Twitter) account, stating that she could no longer allow “this campaign of hate and misinformation” to affect her or her family.

Despite the controversy, Saldana expressed gratitude for the continued support of Emilia Perez, emphasizing the film’s importance. “All of us that came together to tell this story, we came together for love and for respect and curiosity, and we will continue to spread that message,” she concluded.