History is being made at the 2025 Oscars! Spanish actress Karla Sofía Gascón is the first openly transgender woman ever nominated for an Academy Award. Recognized in the Best Actress category, Gascón shines for her role in Emilia Pérez, a groundbreaking musical that has captured audiences worldwide.
In Emilia Pérez, Gascón plays a Mexican cartel leader who fakes their death to undergo gender-affirming surgery and live as a woman. Directed by Jacques Audiard, the film also stars Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, and Adriana Paz. With a mix of action, comedy, and drama, Emilia Pérez has become one of the year’s most celebrated films, earning 13 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best International Feature.
Gascón has been on a winning streak throughout awards season. She picked up Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024 and received nominations at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards, and BAFTAs.
The actress expressed pride in the film’s message: “Emilia Pérez is about transformation and identity—telling a story that is not only entertaining but deeply meaningful.”
Gascón’s nomination is a historic milestone for trans representation in Hollywood, showing that authentic storytelling and diverse voices are finally being celebrated at the highest level.
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