With less than a month before the 97th Academy Awards, expectations are sky-high. However, this year, the buzz isn't just about the films—it's also about the controversy surrounding them. One of these controversies involves nominee and 'Emilia Pérez' star Karla Sofía Gascón, who has triggered a major change in the ceremony's format.
According to Variety, the Academy has decided to scrap the "Fab 5" format in acting categories, a segment that had been confirmed just days before the nominations were announced.
Why was it removed?
The "Fab 5" format featured five past Oscar winners presenting the nominees, highlighting their performances and their impact on cinema. It was a special moment that connected different generations of actors.
However, this year, the Academy made the last-minute decision to eliminate it for the Best Actor and Best Actress categories.
While the official reason cited was redundancy, sources close to the organization suggest that the controversy surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón played a key role in the decision.
As the Variety article noted, "Major A-listers are still expected to be part of the format, but the Oscars won't have the tough task of finding a previous victor willing to laud Gascón's performance from the stage, were she to win."
Will Karla Sofía Gascón attend the ceremony?
Despite her efforts to defend herself—claiming that her past remarks were taken out of context and don't reflect who she is today—the damage is done.
Her nomination, which should have been a moment of celebration, is now overshadowed by debates over whether her presence could disrupt the festive nature of the event.
Netflix, the studio behind 'Emilia Pérez,' has distanced itself by removing Gascón from its promotions. However, as a nominee, she has the right to attend, raising concerns about whether her presence could overshadow other nominees or spark further controversy on a night meant to celebrate cinema.
How do Academy voters feel?
Despite the backlash, Gascón remains a strong contender to win the award due to her standout performance. However, her road to the Oscars hasn't been smooth.
While some criticize her past, others defend her talent and applaud her representation as a trans woman in a category historically dominated by cisgender actresses.
In Variety, Academy voters shared mixed reactions: "I don't think it affects anything. I judge the film on its merits. I can't judge what others do outside of it."
Another voter, however, had a different take: "People are allowed to have their opinions, but I don't want to live in a world where a racist and bigot is highlighted and rewarded. I was going to vote for her because I really did think she was extraordinary, but how could I now? I hope it doesn't affect Zoe. It really shouldn't. I don't think people are that stupid."
This year's Academy Awards are shaping up to be one of the most talked-about in recent history. With changes to the ceremony and controversies surrounding its nominees, it's clear that Hollywood is undergoing a pivotal transformation.
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