Bill Maher Says ‘Anora’ Beat Out ‘Emilia Pérez’ at Oscars Due to “Cancel Culture”

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Bill Maher says “cancel culture” is absolutely “a real thing” and he has proof.

In the latest episode of HBO’s “Real Time”, during a conversation with author-comedian David Sedaris, the host discussed how the ongoing trend of “cancellations” affected the 2025 Oscars, focusing particularly on the commotion caused by actress Karla Sofía Gascón from the movie “Emilia Pérez”.

Some argue that cancel culture doesn’t exist, but I’d counter by pointing out an instance like the Oscars. Whether you believe it or not, the film that was expected to sweep the awards was ‘Emilia Pérez’,” Maher stated.

The comedian remarked that “Hollywood has longed for” the opportunity to make history by awarding the Best Actress Oscar to “an individual who is transgender.” He further praised Gascón’s performance, saying, “I hope she continues to excel; she did a fantastic job.

Initially leading in the Oscar race for best actress, openly transgender nominee Gascón faced a sudden change in her chances when old controversial tweets from the actress reappeared online at the end of January, sparking controversy. Subsequently, Gascón avoided public appearances, missing both the SAG Awards and Oscars red carpet, but she did attend the Oscars ceremony on Sunday.

On “Real Time,” Maher found Gascón’s tweets to be somewhat immature, remarking, “They had a touch of childishness.” He further compared them to the impulsive outbursts characteristic of Kanye West during his periods of hateful posts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Maher commented on Gascón’s tweets, saying they often lead to unfavorable results. “And then some things she said, which were quite blunt,” he added, “but they were extremely open and honest.” However, according to him, the overly sensitive community labeled her comments as going too far.

The host went on, “This film, tipped to win everything, was the clear favorite, but it surprisingly took a break during lunchtime. And that’s great news for Anora. That’s what transpired. So yes, cancel culture is still around, it may have just become a bit more understated.

In the end, Anora emerged victorious at the 2025 Oscars, garnering five awards, notably best picture and best actress for lead actress Mikey Madison. Emilia Pérez also received two Oscars; one for best supporting actress, which went to Zoe Saldaña, and another for best original song titled “El Mal.”

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At the 2025 Oscars, Anora claimed five awards in total, including best picture and best actress for Mikey Madison. Emilia Pérez was also recognized with two statuettes; one for Zoe Saldaña as best supporting actress, and another for the original song “El Mal.”

Or

In summary, it was Anora that swept five categories at the 2025 Oscars, including best picture and best actress for Mikey Madison. Emilia Pérez, meanwhile, won two awards: one for Zoe Saldaña in the best supporting actress category, and another for the original song “El Mal.

In response to the Emilia Pérez debate, Gascón expressed remorse, stating, “I want to recognize the discussion sparked by my past social media posts that have caused distress. As someone belonging to a marginalized group, I understand this pain personally and I am truly sorry for any hurt I may have inflicted. Throughout my life, I’ve been a fighter for a more just world. I firmly believe that light will overcome darkness.

In the most recent broadcast of Real Time, it was Alyssa Farah Griffin and Sen. Jon Tester who graced the stage as guests.

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2025-03-08 08:24