Lubna Jaffery Opens Up About Her Mother's Passing: "The Oscar Buzz Hits Me Hard"

With just days to go until Hollywood's biggest night, there's a special buzz in the air back home in Norway. Joachim Trier, Renate Reinsve, and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas are set to represent the country on the red carpet with "The Worst Person in the World." But the film industry isn't the only one with emotions running high. Minister of Culture Lubna Jaffery admits this year's Oscar race holds a profoundly personal significance for her.

A Loss That Leaves Its Mark

A few years ago, Lubna Jaffery lost her mother. In previous interviews, she's been open about their close bond and how her mother always encouraged her to forge her own path. Now, amidst the Oscar excitement, those memories are coming back in full force.

"It's strange how art can hit you right in the heart when you least expect it. I saw 'The Worst Person in the World' with my mother when it was in theatres," Jaffery shares in an interview.

She describes the scene where the protagonist, Julie, loses someone close to her as almost unbearably powerful to watch in hindsight.

"My mother loved film and storytelling. She would have loved seeing this Norwegian team shine in Los Angeles. That's why this Oscar buzz feels like an echo of her belief in me—and in Norwegian culture," says a visibly moved Jaffery.

Brotherly Love and Everyday Joys

While her mother's spirit lingers in the minister's office, there's another important man in her life keeping her spirits up: her little brother. Lately, on social media, he's been entertaining followers with his "annoying" antics—from stealing the last piece of chocolate to showing up unannounced at her office with coffee.

• "Sweet Brother" – as she affectionately calls him – has become a bit of a sensation in the comment sections.
• "Annoying, but indispensable," Jaffery recently wrote in a social media post, which garnered thousands of likes.
• Many are praising her for showing an informal and warm side of politics amidst a hectic schedule.

"He's my brother, and he's just like most siblings: a bit of a pest, but always there when it counts. It's good to have someone to laugh with when the world gets too serious," she says with a smile.

The Minister's Role in Norwegian Cinema

Beyond the personal stories, Lubna Jaffery is also Norway's leading voice in cultural policy. She has clearly stated her desire to strengthen Norwegian film production and sees the Oscar nomination as proof that Norwegian stories are reaching a global audience.

"This isn't just an achievement for Joachim, Renate, and Inga. It's a win for the entire Norwegian film community, for everyone working behind the scenes, and for audiences who finally get to see themselves reflected on the big screen," she says.

She highlights that films like "The Worst Person in the World" put Norway on the map and open doors for new talent.

A Personal and Political Journey

For Lubna Jaffery, the journey from her mother's care to today's minister's office has been long, but driven by the same motivation: to create something meaningful. As she watches the Oscars from home, her heart will be beating for both her field and for those she has lost along the way.

"I know my mother would have been glued to the screen, just like me. And I know she would have been cheering for all the Norwegian participants. So am I—for her sake, and for all of us who love Norwegian culture," she concludes.