Trans Actress Karla Sofía Gascón Makes History at Golden Globes

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Karla Sofía Gascón, a Spanish transgender actress, made history at the 2024 Golden Globes, becoming the first trans woman to be nominated for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical for her role in the film Emilia Pérez. Although she did not win the award, Gascón took the stage to accept the prize for Best Non-English Language Film, delivering a powerful message of resilience and self-acceptance.

“I chose these colors because I have a message for you: ‘Light always wins over darkness,'” Gascón said, referencing her orange and yellow attire. “Raise your voices, be free, and say, ‘I am who I am, not who you want me to be.'” Her emotional speech was met with a standing ovation.

Gascón, who transitioned in 2016, has become a prominent advocate for transgender rights. Her journey has been marked by both personal and professional milestones, including her groundbreaking win for Best Female Performance at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival for her role in Emilia Pérez.

Before her transition, Gascón was known as Carlos Gascón. She credits her wife, Marisa Gutiérrez, for supporting her through the process of discovering her true identity. The couple, who have a daughter named Victoria Elena, briefly separated in 2009 but have since reunited. They appeared together on the Golden Globes red carpet, showcasing their enduring bond.

In a recent interview with Yordi Rosado, Gascón revealed the emotional toll of her transition, including struggles with suicidal thoughts. “Writing became my refuge,” she said, referring to her 2018 memoir, Karsia, una historia extraordinaria, where she publicly announced her transition and adopted the name Karla Sofía.

Gascón’s role in Emilia Pérez required her to convince director Jacques Audiard through a series of auditions and vocal transformations. “I had to persuade him with videos, tests, and changing my voice to play the early part of Emilia, when she is still Manitas,” she explained.

Despite facing criticism and challenges, Gascón has emerged as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and breaking barriers, inspiring others to embrace their authentic selves.