In an interview with Brazil’s Folha de São Paulo, Gascón expressed frustration about what she described as online hate speech aimed at her and her work. She said, “I don’t like that there’s a social media team that works around these people that are attempting to discredit my work and my film.” She clarified that she would never speak ill of Torres or her work but felt there were individuals associated with Torres who were doing just that.
However, within 24 hours, Gascón retracted her words, clarifying that her comment was aimed at the broader issue of online hate, not Torres or her team. She referred to Torres as a “wonderful ally” and an “enormous fan” of her work, emphasizing that no one associated with Torres had been anything but supportive.
Despite the retraction, the controversy sparked a debate online. Some speculated that Gascón’s comments violated the Academy Awards’ rules, which prohibit negative statements about competing films or nominees. A source confirmed to Rolling Stone that the Academy had reviewed the transcript and found no violation, as Gascón did not disparage Torres or her film.
Fans of Torres were left puzzled by the back-and-forth, especially given that just days earlier, Torres had shared a heartwarming story about Gascón helping her feel welcome at a party. In a video, Torres expressed her gratitude, saying, “Let’s not mistreat each other… I am forever grateful to Gascón. She’s wonderful in Emilia Pérez.”
The drama comes amid criticism of Gascón’s film Emilia Pérez, which has faced backlash for its portrayal of Mexican culture and the trans experience. Critics have pointed out that the film’s director, Jacques Audiard, is not Mexican and did not cast Mexican-born actresses in the leading roles, raising concerns about authenticity.
As Gascón and Torres both vie for the Best Actress Oscar, the tension between them has added another layer to what is already a heated awards season.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
