For the first time in history, a transgender woman has been nominated in BAFTA’s leading actress category.
Spanish actress Karla Sofía Gascón, 52, received the nomination for her role in the Mexican musical comedy Emilia Pérez, which tells the story of a cartel boss who transitions from a man to a woman.
Gascón will compete against notable nominees including Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, Mikey Madison (Anora), Saoirse Ronan (The Outrun), Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths), and Demi Moore (The Substance).
The Netflix film, which explores the gender transition of a drug dealer, is also nominated for Best Film, Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Not In The English Language.
This milestone follows BAFTA’s 2024 decision to introduce the gender-neutral title of “performer” for those who prefer not to be labeled as “actor” or “actress.”
The British Academy of Film joins the Golden Globes and Cannes Film Festival in including transgender performers in the best actress category.
