How Fernanda Torres, Karla Sofía Gascón and More Are Making History

Hollywood’s biggest night is often a historic one, too.

And that’s no different this year for the 2025 Oscars.

Indeed, when Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott announced the Academy Award nominations Jan. 23, Emilia Pérez led the pack, picking up a total of 13 nods across the board, with nominations for cinematography, film editing, directing and Best Picture.

But it was show-stopping star Karla Sofía Gascón who made history as the first openly trans actress to be nominated for an Oscar.

The Spanish actress was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her portrayal of the titular character in the film. Karla, who recently found herself embattled in controversy due to resurfaced tweets, previously made history this awards season, becoming the first trans woman to win the best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Prior, the Academy has recognized cisgender actors who have portrayed transgender characters with Jared Leto’s Best Supporting Actor win for Dallas Buyers Club, Hilary Swank’s Best Actress win for Boys Don’t Cry and Eddie Redmayne’s Best Actor win for The Danish Girl.