Karla Sofía Gascón

Karla Sofía Gascón, born on March 31, 1972, in Alcobendas, Spain, is a pioneering Spanish actress celebrated for her remarkable contributions to film and television. She began her acting career at the age of 16, enrolling at the Escuela de Cinematografía y del Audiovisual de la Comunidad de Madrid (ECAM). Her early work included roles in London for a BBC Spanish-language learning series and voicing puppets for children’s television in Milan. These experiences set the foundation for her successful career.

Throughout her career, Gascón has delivered outstanding performances in notable films like “La caja 507” (2002) and “Di que sí” (2004). However, it was her role as Peter Pintado in the 2013 comedy “Nosotros, los Nobles” that truly catapulted her into the spotlight. Her groundbreaking performance as the title character in the 2024 musical crime film Emilia Pérez earned her the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress, making her the first transgender actress to receive this honor. She also secured the European Film Award for Best Actress and became the first openly transgender actress nominated for an Academy Award.

Beyond her acting achievements, Gascón is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness. She has shared the struggles she faced during her Oscar campaign, including facing public scrutiny and personal attacks, while emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding. Based in Alcobendas, Spain, Gascón lives with her wife, Marisa Gutiérrez, and their daughter, born in 2011.