Actress Karla Sofía Gascón is set to return to the screen in a new role following the controversy surrounding her involvement in the 2024 film Emilia Pérez.
Gascón will play a psychiatrist who “embodies both God and the devil” in the psychological thriller The Life Lift, opposite Vincent Gallo, according to Variety. The film is the directorial debut of Italian filmmaker Stefania Rossella Grassi.
“The Life Lift” Plot
The Life Lift stars Gallo as Gabriel, a New York resident who receives messages on Post-it notes in his building’s elevator. These messages instruct him to commit murders of three other tenants who are also plotting to kill their relatives, Variety reported.
“Emilia Pérez” Controversy
Emilia Pérez, which received 13 nominations at the Oscars in 2024, was a controversial film. The film drew criticism from Mexican and transgender critics for its portrayal of their communities, and faced general audience disapproval.
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The controversy surrounding Gascón escalated when social media posts containing racist and bigoted statements about Muslims, George Floyd, and diversity at the Oscars resurfaced. Gascón, the first openly transgender actor to be nominated for an acting Oscar, attended the ceremony for which she was nominated for Best Actress but did not walk the red carpet.
Gascón’s Apologies
Initially, Gascón defended herself, claiming she was not hateful or racist and was being targeted by harassment. However, in March 2025, she issued a new apology through The Hollywood Reporter.
“With no excuse, and without any intention to justify any of my past actions, I apologize to all I have offended at any point in my life and throughout my journey,” Gascón stated. “I humbly ask for their forgiveness and, to honor their kindness and understanding, I promise I will commit to continuing to learn and listen, so as not to make the same mistakes in the future.”
Gallo’s Controversy
Gallo has also been the subject of controversy. Most recently, three actresses filed a complaint with SAG-AFTRA, alleging that during auditions for his upcoming film The Policeman, Gallo made lewd comments, including, “I may ask you to suck my cock onscreen, and I want an actress who is not going to put up a fight about that,” Variety reported.
Gascón’s Upcoming Projects
In addition to The Life Lift, Gascón has other upcoming projects. She is set to star in Las Mala, a Spanish-language trans fable by Oscar-winning director Armando Bó (Birdman). Gascón also filmed an Italian comedy, Men and Other Inconveniences, before Emilia Pérez, which is expected to be released soon.
