After successful an Oscar for Emilia Perez, Zoe Saldana apologized to Mexicans offended by the movie’s portrayal of their nation. Whereas addressing the backlash, she acknowledged the criticism however defended the movie’s intent.
Right here’s what Zoe Saldana mentioned in regards to the controversy.
Why did Zoe Saldana apologize to Mexicans?
Zoe Saldana apologized to Mexicans after successful Greatest Supporting Actress on the 2025 Oscars. The movie, which additionally stars Selena Gomez and Karla Sofia Gascon, has confronted criticism for its portrayal of Mexico. Some viewers referred to as it dangerous and offensive. Throughout a post-ceremony press convention, a journalist confronted Saldana in regards to the controversy, stating that the film had been “hurtful” in the direction of Mexicans.
In response, the actress apologized to these offended, clarifying that misrepresentation was by no means the filmmakers’ intention. Nevertheless, she firmly defended the movie, stating that it was not meant to depict a selected nation however somewhat inform a common story about girls overcoming oppression.
Saldana emphasised, “I’m very, very sorry that you simply and so many Mexicans felt offended. That was by no means our intention. We spoke, and we got here from a spot of affection, and I’ll stand by that.” The actress added, “We have been making a movie about 4 girls. And these girls may have been Russian, may have been Dominican, may have been Black from Detroit, may have been from Israel, may have been from Gaza.” (by way of E! Information)
She additionally said her willingness to have interaction in discussions with the Mexican neighborhood about how the film may have been improved.
Emilia Perez confronted further controversy when previous social media posts from co-star Karla Sofía Gascon resurfaced. The Spanish actress, who made historical past as the primary brazenly trans Oscar nominee, got here beneath hearth for beforehand sharing offensive remarks on X (previously Twitter). Her posts focused Muslims, George Floyd, and variety in Hollywood, sparking backlash on-line.