Netflix and its silence surrounding Karla Sofia Gascon's controversial remarks
What's the story
Streaming giant Netflix is under fire for its silence after racially insensitive social media posts of Emilia Perez star Karla Sofia Gascon were exposed. The controversy began when journalist Sarah Hagi unearthed a series of offensive tweets from Gascon's past. Despite it being five days since the revelation, Netflix has neither issued any public statement nor responded to requests for comments about its stance on Gascon's remarks.
Controversial posts
Gascon's offensive tweets and Netflix's involvement
Gascon, a Spanish actor, has faced backlash for her offensive tweets over the years. In the posts, she called Islam a "hotbed of infection for humanity," called George Floyd a "drug addict swindler," and derogatorily called the 2021 Oscars an "ugly" "Afro-Korean festival." She also wondered about the world war against Hitler and regularly used a Spanish slur. Gascon deactivated her Twitter account after the backlash and apologized.
Damage control
Netflix distributed Gascon's original apology but has been silent since
Netflix has quietly been distancing itself from Gascon's remarks. The company arranged and distributed Gascon's original apology but denied any involvement in arranging her recent CNN interview. In this interview, Gascon defended her right to stay in the Oscar race despite the uproar. Sources told Deadline that communication between Netflix and Gascon is now limited to her agent. Additionally, The Hollywood Reporter reported that Netflix is not supporting her appearances at the Critics Choice Awards and Producers Guild Awards.
Awards season
Gascon's reduced presence in Netflix's awards campaign
Gascon has also been conspicuously absent from Netflix's awards campaign. Social media users noted that she was absent from a recent Netflix For Your Consideration poster. However, she still appears on an awards microsite for the Jacques Audiard film, which leads with 13 Oscar nominations including one for Gascon. Amid this controversy, Gascon has reduced her appearances at award shows and won't be attending the Critics Choice Awards or the Producers Guild Awards.
Unanswered questions
Netflix's silence raises questions about its priorities
Netflix's silence on Gascon's remarks has raised questions about the company's priorities. Some allege Netflix may be prioritizing its Oscar campaign for Emilia Perez over racism. Others argue co-CEO Ted Sarandos is a known advocate for freedom of expression, which could explain the silence. Unlike past controversies involving comedian Dave Chappelle, Gascon's offensive posts weren't part of a creative endeavor, so it necessarily doesn't require Netflix to answer. But, of course, a moral obligation remains.