In an unexpected and unauthorized CNN en Español appearance Sunday morning, "Emilia Pérez" star Karla Sofía Gascón gave an emotional hour-long interview addressing her controversial social media history. Netflix confirmed they were not involved in arranging the interview.
During the lengthy conversation with host Juan Carlos Arciniegas, Gascón tearfully defended herself against accusations of racism and Islamophobia stemming from resurfaced tweets. The Oscar-nominated actress insisted she is "not racist" and offered apologies to those offended by her past statements.
The interview took several emotional turns as Gascón discussed personal traumas, including her brother's death and experiences facing discrimination as a trans woman. She also spoke about death threats and online abuse she's received since the controversy began.
When questioned about specific tweets, including comments about George Floyd and the 2020 Oscar winners, Gascón claimed her posts were meant to be ironic commentary on others' racist views. She explained she previously used social media "like a diary" without considering its broader impact.
The actress addressed a particularly controversial tweet about Hitler and Jews, stating she was writing in "third person, as if I were a Nazi" to make an opposing point. She maintained her posts have been misinterpreted and taken out of context.
Regarding her Oscar nomination campaign for "Emilia Pérez," Gascón expressed frustration at having years of work potentially overshadowed by the controversy. While she indicated meetings with Netflix have taken place, she could not elaborate on their discussions.
The interview concluded with Gascón apologizing to her daughter and acknowledging that her words may continue to be "misrepresented." She maintained she has "nothing to hide" and a "clean conscience," stating she would return to her private life if necessary.
The appearance, which Netflix was reportedly unaware of, marks the latest development in an ongoing controversy surrounding the actress's social media history and its impact on her historic Oscar nomination.