Lux Pascal's Netflix Film Sparks Heated Online Controversy
Pedro Pascal's transgender sister stars in Queen of Coal, a biographical drama about Argentina's first trans coal miner that's dividing audiences before its global Netflix debut.
The upcoming Netflix release Queen of Coal has ignited fierce debate across social media platforms before its December 19 worldwide premiere. The biographical drama stars Lux Pascal, transgender sister of The Last of Us actor Pedro Pascal, portraying real-life figure Carlita Antonella Rodríguez.
This Spanish-Argentine collaboration, helmed by director Agustina Macri, chronicles Carlita's journey to become Patagonia's first transgender coal miner. The narrative explores her battle against deeply rooted traditions and superstitions that branded women entering mines as harbingers of misfortune.
Social Media Erupts Over LGBTQ+ Representation
Critics have launched harsh attacks against both Netflix and Lux Pascal for what they perceive as excessive LGBTQ+ programming. Twitter users expressed strong disapproval, with one posting: "This is an actual show coming out on Netflix soon: Queen of Coal. A trans woman dreams of working the coal mines — but in a town steeped in superstition and patriarchy, Carlita must fight to earn her place underground."
Another user declared: "NO THANK YOU!! I cancelled Netflix years ago anyway." Some questioned the premise itself, with one critic writing: "Not believable. Who, the fuck, dreams of working in the coal mines? I write books about magic and super soldier and wouldn't use a premise that unlikely."
LGBTQ+ Advocates Rally Behind the Project
Conversely, LGBTQ+ supporters have praised the production enthusiastically. One advocate shared: "Representation matters. Carlita's story is a reminder that trans people belong everywhere – including spaces society has long tried to exclude them from." The movie previously debuted in Spanish theaters on June 12, 2025, followed by its Argentine release on October 2, 2025.
Rising Star Following Famous Brother's Path
Born Lucas Balmaceda in California, Lux Pascal is 17 years her brother's junior. After relocating to Chile at age three, she publicly came out as transgender in 2021, adopting her current name. Following her 2023 Juilliard graduation in theater, she launched her acting career with stage performances before transitioning to Spanish television and cinema.
Her television debut came through the Spanish series Los 80, followed by soap opera appearances in Juana Brava. Her 2016 film debut marked her entry into cinema, though her most recognized role remains playing Elijah alongside Pedro in Narcos. Pedro has consistently supported his sister's transition, sharing her magazine feature on Instagram with the caption: "Mi hermana, mi corazón, nuestra Lux" (My sister, my heart, our Lux).