Selena Marie Gomez
Fragments of Truth
- Selena Gomez was the most followed woman on Instagram for several years, with over 400 million followers.
- She is of Mexican and Italian descent, with her father being of Mexican heritage and her mother of Italian and English ancestry.
- Gomez has directed several music videos, including for her songs *Boyfriend* and *Who Says*.
- In 2019, she became the youngest woman to produce a Netflix series with *13 Reasons Why*.
- She is the first artist to achieve nine number-one hits on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.
- Gomez has a rare blood type, which made her kidney transplant in 2017 particularly challenging.
Origins
Selena Marie Gomez was born on July 22, 1992, in Grand Prairie, Texas, to Ricardo Joel Gomez and Amanda Dawn Cornett. Raised primarily by her single mother, Selena grew up in a modest household and developed an early passion for performing. At the age of 10, she landed her first acting role in the children's television series *Barney & Friends* (2002-2004), where she played Gianna. This early experience sparked her lifelong journey in the entertainment industry.
Notable Achievements
[{'title': 'Wizards of Waverly Place (TV Series)', 'year': 2007, 'description': "A Disney Channel series that propelled Gomez to stardom, earning her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Children's Program."}, {'title': 'Revival (Album)', 'year': 2015, 'description': 'Her second solo studio album, featuring hits like *Good for You*, *Same Old Love*, and *Hands to Myself*, which showcased her artistic evolution.'}, {'title': '13 Reasons Why (TV Series)', 'year': 2017, 'description': 'A Netflix series for which Gomez served as an executive producer, addressing themes of mental health and suicide among teenagers.'}, {'title': 'Rare (Album)', 'year': 2020, 'description': 'Her third studio album, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and included the hit single *Lose You to Love Me*.'}, {'title': 'Only Murders in the Building (TV Series)', 'year': 2021, 'description': 'A Hulu mystery-comedy series in which Gomez stars alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short, earning critical acclaim.'}, {'title': 'Rare Beauty', 'year': 2020, 'description': 'A cosmetics brand founded by Gomez, focused on inclusivity, mental health advocacy, and breaking down beauty standards.'}]
Education
Gomez was homeschooled during her teenage years to accommodate her burgeoning acting and music career. Despite her demanding schedule, she prioritized education and later enrolled in college courses to further her knowledge. In 2014, she completed a high school diploma through an online program, demonstrating her commitment to personal growth and learning.
Behind the Career
Selena Gomez has been open about her struggles with mental health, including battles with depression, anxiety, and lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease she was diagnosed with in 2014. She underwent a kidney transplant in 2017, with her best friend Francia Raisa donating the organ. Gomez has been in high-profile relationships, notably with Justin Bieber, with whom she had an on-again, off-again relationship from 2010 to 2018. She is also a devoted dog lover and has been involved in various charitable causes, including her work as a UNICEF ambassador and her support for mental health organizations. In 2023, she began dating musician Benny Blanco.
Career
Selena Gomez's career skyrocketed when she was cast as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel series *Wizards of Waverly Place* (2007-2012), which earned her widespread recognition and several awards, including an Emmy. She transitioned into music as the lead vocalist of the band *Selena Gomez & the Scene*, releasing hit albums like *A Year Without Rain* (2010) and *When the Sun Goes Down* (2011). Her debut solo album, *Stars Dance* (2013), marked a turning point, blending pop, dance, and R&B influences. Over the years, she has released chart-topping solo albums such as *Revival* (2015) and *Rare* (2020). Beyond music, Gomez has ventured into producing, launching her production company, July Moon Productions, and acting in films and series like *Spring Breakers* (2012) and *Only Murders in the Building* (2021-present). She is also the founder of Rare Beauty, a cosmetics brand, and has collaborated with brands like Puma and Coach.
Legacy
Selena Gomez's legacy is defined by her resilience, versatility, and commitment to using her platform for positive change. As one of the most followed people on social media, she has leveraged her influence to destigmatize mental health, advocate for lupus awareness, and promote self-acceptance. Her contributions to music, television, and film have earned her numerous accolades, including a Billboard Women in Music Woman of the Year award (2017) and multiple American Music Awards. Gomez continues to inspire millions with her authenticity, creativity, and dedication to making a difference.
The heart wants what it wants. What the heart wants is what it wants. There's no logic to those things. You can't change those things. - Selena Gomez pop singer