Trans actor Karla Sofia Gascon makes history winning best actress at Cannes

Karla Sofia Gascon, a 52-year-old Spanish actor, became the first transgender woman to win the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival. She won the award for her role in the film "Emilia Perez," where she played a Mexican drug trafficker before and after gender reassignment surgery. After her win, a far-right politician made a sexist comment about her win, which led Gascon to file a legal complaint for a "sexist insult on the basis of gender identity." Gascon dedicated her win to all transgender people who are facing difficulties. She emphasized that being transgender is a transition and once it's complete, they should be accepted for who they are. Gascon urged people to stop labeling individuals based on their gender identity. The film "Emilia Perez" also won the Cannes Jury Prize, making it a significant moment for Gascon and the cast. The decision to award the Best Actress prize collectively to the female cast members was a break from tradition. Gascon's win sparked both praise and controversy, with some gender critical groups expressing their opinions. Gascon, who started her career in Spanish television and later transitioned to being a trans woman, highlighted the importance of acceptance and understanding for transgender individuals. She emphasized that transgender people are normal individuals who deserve respect and equal opportunities.