Jessica Gascón, the actress renowned for her captivating performances, celebrated an important victory this week. Gascón took home the prestigious Unión de Actores y Actrices (Actors and Actresses Union) prize for the best actress in an international production, an accolade presented at the memorable 33rd edition ceremony held at Circo Price, Madrid. Accepting her award, Gascón delivered a heartfelt speech addressing the trio of roles that define who she is: as an actress, a woman, and notably, an individual not immune to making mistakes, emblemizing her humanity.
Reflecting on the stronger and darker moments she has navigated through her career, Gascón extended an apology for not always being the person she aspired to be, but she affirmed her commitment to self-improvement. She voiced her desire to serve as an example of overcoming obstacles, drawing strength and inspiration from experiences like Jamie Lee Curtis’ stance against the hatred her daughter faced.
In her speech, the Spanish actress upped the ante on her fight, not just for personal growth but against broader adversities, hinting at her past experiences when she shifted from micro-theatre performances to a public stage, facing unrelenting criticism. “May strength be with us in all the dark moments we have left to live through,” she encouraged, “and let’s commence by confronting the darker aspects of our very selves: discerning more love and less hate.”
Her journey through controversy has been tumultuous. Gascón candidly disclosed that the rapid escalation of a tweet scandal left her breathless and in profound despair. This ordeal, albeit painful, steeled her resolve, leading her to attend the 97th Oscars where her nomination for Best Actress marked history. Host Conan O’Brien even referenced the controversy, poking fun at the incident.
Despite the backdrop of an intense and public struggle, Gascón stood as a beacon of strength and representation for the trans community. Emilia Pérez, though nominated for Best Actress, didn’t secure an Oscar, a moment Gardner noted both with disappointment and hope. The film earned two Oscars, yet it failed to land the coveted Best International Film, an outcome that highlighted the competitive spirit and unpredictability of the awards.
The film, directed by Jacques Audiard and starring Gascón in a dynamic role with Zoe Saldaña, had been hailed for its striking balance of musical kitsch and profound social commentary, as well as Gascón’s compelling performance. Reflecting on the film, reviewers praised Emilia Pérez not solely as an artistic triumph but as a narrative that brought much-needed attention to socio-political themes.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/culture/2025/03/12/karla-sofia-gascon-receives-spanish-actors-and-actresses-union-award-i-am-a-woman-like-any
