Selena Gomez: A Journey of Artistry, Advocacy, and Resilience

Selena Marie Gomez, born on July 22, 1992, in Grand Prairie, Texas, has evolved from a child actress on a beloved children's show into a global phenomenon, encompassing roles as an acclaimed singer, actress, producer, and businesswoman. Her journey is a testament to unwavering dedication, artistic versatility, and profound resilience in the face of immense public scrutiny and personal challenges. Named after the iconic Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla, Gomez's roots are deeply embedded in her Mexican heritage through her father's side, while her adopted mother has Italian ancestry. She proudly identifies as a "proud third-generation American-Mexican." [1, 28, 30]

Raised by her mother, Mandy Teefey, after her parents' divorce when she was five, Gomez experienced financial hardships during her childhood. Her mother, a former stage actress, worked tirelessly, often juggling three jobs, to provide for them. Gomez recalls instances where they had to search for quarters to buy gas or walked to a dollar store for spaghetti, highlighting the sacrifices her mother made for her. Her close relationship with her grandparents also played a significant role in her upbringing, as they often cared for her while her parents completed their schooling, with Gomez stating they "raised her" until her success in show business. [1, 28, 30]

Early Life and Beginnings in Entertainment

Selena Gomez's interest in entertainment was sparked by observing her mother prepare for stage productions. This early exposure fostered a passion for acting, leading her to pursue opportunities in the industry. Her career officially began in 2002 when she landed a role on the popular children's television series Barney & Friends, portraying the character Gianna. [1, 22, 28, 30] This initial acting gig provided Gomez with fundamental skills, as she later recalled learning everything from "camera right" to "blocking" during her time on the show. She appeared on Barney & Friends until 2004, leaving when producers felt she was "too old." [28]

During her stint on Barney & Friends, Gomez also secured minor roles in other productions, including the family movie Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over in 2003 and the television movie Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire in 2005. [28, 34] These early experiences laid the groundwork for her eventual breakthrough, showcasing her budding talent and determination. Her dedication to her craft was evident even as a young girl, driven by the desire to follow in her mother's footsteps and pursue her dreams in the performing arts. [30]

The Disney Channel Phenomenon: 'Wizards of Waverly Place' and Beyond

Gomez's true ascent to teen idol status came with her leading role as Alex Russo on the Disney Channel sitcom Wizards of Waverly Place. She was cast in 2007 and quickly became a prominent face for the network, with the show running until 2012. [1, 22] Her portrayal of the mischievous, magic-wielding Alex garnered critical praise for her acting and comedic timing, making her a mainstream star. [28] While working on the series, Gomez also took on other Disney-related projects, including a guest spot on The Suite Life of Zack and Cody and a role as Mikayla in Hannah Montana, further solidifying her presence on the Disney Channel. [22, 30, 34]

Beyond television, Gomez ventured into Disney Channel original movies. She starred as Mary Santiago in Another Cinderella Story (2008), for which she also sang three songs on the soundtrack, including "Tell Me Something I Don't Know," her first song to chart on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. [28] She also lent her voice to the animated film Horton Hears a Who! (2008) as Helga, a film that proved to be a significant success. [22, 28] These various projects cemented her as a versatile talent within the Disney ecosystem, setting the stage for her transition into a broader entertainment career.

Forming Selena Gomez & The Scene: Early Musical Success

In 2008, at the age of 16, Selena Gomez signed a music deal with Hollywood Records, marking her formal entry into the music industry. [1, 28] Instead of launching an immediate solo career, she formed the pop-rock band Selena Gomez & The Scene. This strategic move allowed her to explore her musical identity within a band structure, providing a platform to hone her artistry. The band released three successful albums under Hollywood Records: Kiss & Tell (2009), A Year Without Rain (2010), and When the Sun Goes Down (2011). [1, 11]

Their debut album, Kiss & Tell, debuted at number nine on the US Billboard 200. While its lead single, "Falling Down," had a modest chart performance, the second single, "Naturally," became a Top 40 hit in major markets like the US, Germany, Canada, New Zealand, and Spain, and was their first Top 10 hit in the UK, earning the album Gold status within months. [45] Subsequent albums, A Year Without Rain and When the Sun Goes Down, continued this trajectory of success, spawning hits like "Who Says" and "Love You Like a Love Song." [45] These albums established Gomez as a credible musical artist, expanding her reach beyond her Disney audience.

The Solo Era Begins: 'Stars Dance'

After an indefinite hiatus for Selena Gomez & The Scene in 2012, Gomez embarked on her solo music career, releasing her debut solo studio album, Stars Dance, in July 2013. [1, 3, 11] The album marked a significant shift in her musical direction, embracing EDM and electropop influences, a sound that reflected her evolving artistic preferences. [1, 11] This period was a pivotal moment for Gomez, as she sought to establish her individuality and mature image in the music landscape. [11]

Stars Dance proved to be a commercial success, becoming her first album to debut at number one in the U.S., selling 97,000 copies in its first week, and also reaching the top spot in Canada. [1, 11] The lead single, "Come & Get It," was particularly impactful, becoming Gomez's first top-ten entry on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number six, and also reaching the top-ten in Canada and the U.K. [1, 3, 11] This album not only solidified her capability as a solo artist but also showcased her willingness to experiment with new sounds and genres.

'Revival': A New Artistic Direction

Following the success of Stars Dance, Selena Gomez continued to evolve her sound with her second solo studio album, Revival, released in October 2015. This album, released under Interscope Records, further cemented her transition into electropop, showcasing a more refined and confident artistic persona. [1, 11] Revival was critically acclaimed for its maturity and introspective themes, signaling a deeper exploration of her identity both as an artist and as an individual. [11]

Revival debuted atop the US Billboard 200 and charted within the top ten in numerous other territories, reinforcing her global appeal. [3, 11] The album was a powerhouse for singles, spawning three top-ten hits in the US: "Good for You," "Same Old Love," and "Hands to Myself." [1, 3, 11] This achievement made Gomez the sixth woman to score at least three number-one singles on the Pop Airplay chart from a single album, a significant milestone in her music career. [3]

Embracing Vulnerability: 'Rare' and Its Resonating Message

In January 2020, Selena Gomez released her third solo studio album, Rare, which was widely seen as her most personal and vulnerable work to date. The album's title itself became the namesake for her highly successful beauty brand, Rare Beauty, launched later that year. [1, 7] Rare delved into themes of self-love, healing, and moving forward, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike, who praised its authenticity and emotional depth. [1]

Rare became Gomez's third consecutive number one album in the US and topped charts in Australia, Canada, and several other territories, while peaking at number two in the UK. [3] The album featured her first Billboard Hot 100 number-one single, "Lose You to Love Me," a track that achieved global success and reached the top five of various national charts worldwide. [1, 3, 45] This era marked a new chapter for Gomez, where she embraced her true self and shared her journey with unparalleled transparency.

Recent Musical Ventures and Evolving Sound

Selena Gomez has continued to explore diverse musical avenues, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Following Rare, she ventured into Spanish-language music with her extended play (EP), Revelación, released in 2021. This project earned her nominations at both the Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards, highlighting her ability to connect with a wider, global audience and embrace her heritage through music. [1, 3, 11, 25]

Beyond her solo albums and EPs, Gomez has consistently engaged in successful collaborations with other artists. Notable collaborations include "We Don't Talk Anymore" with Charlie Puth, "It Ain't Me" with Kygo, "Wolves" with Marshmello, and "Taki Taki" with DJ Snake, Ozuna, and Cardi B. [1, 3, 45] Her collaboration with Rema on the "Calm Down (Remix)" has been widely regarded as the most successful Afrobeats song of all time and earned multiple accolades, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats. [1, 25] In 2025, she released a collaborative album, I Said I Love You First, with Benny Blanco, which debuted in the top ten in several countries, further demonstrating her continuous artistic evolution. [3, 11]

Expanding Her Acting Range: Film Roles

Beyond her iconic Disney roles, Selena Gomez has steadily built a diverse filmography, taking on more mature and varied characters to expand her acting range. Her film credits include projects such as Ramona and Beezus (2010), Monte Carlo (2011), and the controversial Spring Breakers (2012), which marked a significant departure from her wholesome Disney image. [1, 22] She also voiced the character Mavis in the highly successful Hotel Transylvania film franchise from 2012 to 2022, showcasing her talent in animated features. [1, 22]

Gomez continued to challenge herself with roles in independent dramas like The Fundamentals of Caring (2016) and The Dead Don't Die (2019), demonstrating her commitment to dramatic acting. [1] More recently, she starred in Emilia Pérez (2024), a Spanish-language musical thriller, which earned her a joint Best Actress Award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival alongside her co-stars, as well as a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture. [1, 25, 44] These roles underscore her dedication to evolving as an actress and taking on complex characters outside of her comfort zone.

Television Production and Performance: '13 Reasons Why' and 'Only Murders in the Building'

Selena Gomez has significantly expanded her presence in television not only as an actress but also as an executive producer. A notable project in her producing portfolio is the Netflix teen drama 13 Reasons Why (2017–2020), based on Jay Asher's novel. [1, 13] While Gomez did not star in the series, she was deeply involved as an executive producer, a role she described as a "passion project." [13, 37, 41] Her mother, Mandy Teefey, initially discovered the book, and together with producer Kristel Laiblin, they worked for years to bring the story to the screen, with Gomez presenting the idea to Netflix in 2015. [41, 43]

The series, which tackled sensitive subjects like suicide and mental health, garnered significant media scrutiny and controversy due to its graphic content. [37, 40] Despite the backlash, Gomez has defended the show, stating that it "created conversation" and that "it was important for me to do." [41] Her involvement underscored her commitment to using her platform to address challenging social issues, even when met with criticism. She also produced the Netflix docuseries Living Undocumented (2019) and starred in her HBO Max cooking series Selena + Chef (2020–2023), which earned her a Critics' Choice Real TV Award and two Daytime Emmy Award nominations. [1, 25, 42]

Currently, Gomez shines as a lead actress and executive producer in the critically acclaimed Hulu mystery-comedy series Only Murders in the Building, which premiered in 2021. Her performance as Mabel Mora has earned her widespread critical praise, including nominations for a Critics' Choice Television Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and multiple Golden Globe Awards for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy. [1, 25, 42, 44] The show's success highlights her comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short, further cementing her status as a versatile and beloved entertainer.

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Rare Beauty and Other Ventures

Selena Gomez has successfully transitioned into a formidable businesswoman, most notably with the launch of her cosmetics company, Rare Beauty. Founded on February 22, 2019, and officially launched on September 3, 2020, Rare Beauty takes its name from Gomez's third studio album, Rare. [1, 7, 32] The brand is sold through its official website and Sephora stores globally, quickly becoming one of Sephora's best-selling brands and the fastest-growing celebrity beauty brand on social media. [7, 10, 35]

Gomez's vision for Rare Beauty extends beyond just cosmetics; it is deeply rooted in promoting self-acceptance and challenging unrealistic beauty standards. She has stated that her "main purpose when I started Rare Beauty was to break down the unrealistic standards of beauty we see in society today," emphasizing that the brand "isn't about how other people see you — it's about how you see yourself." [7, 9, 32] This ethos resonates strongly with consumers, contributing to the brand's immense success. As of 2024, Rare Beauty is valued at over US$2 billion, with reports in early 2024 indicating she was considering a $2 billion acquisition offer. [1, 7] In September 2024, Selena Gomez officially became a billionaire, with the vast majority (81%) of her wealth amassed through Rare Beauty, in which she holds a 51% ownership stake. [6, 14, 16, 27]

Beyond Rare Beauty, Gomez has engaged in various other business ventures and endorsements throughout her career. In 2009, she participated in Sears's back-to-school fashion campaign and served as a spokesperson for Borden Milk. [22] In 2010, she launched her own fashion collection, Dream Out Loud, which featured bohemian-inspired clothing made from recycled or eco-friendly materials. [22] These ventures, alongside her music sales, touring, and acting career, have contributed significantly to her impressive net worth, making her one of the wealthiest musicians and the richest Disney star. [6, 14, 27]

Philanthropic Commitments: UNICEF and Beyond

Selena Gomez has long demonstrated a deep commitment to philanthropy, using her influential platform to advocate for various humanitarian causes. One of her most significant and enduring affiliations is with UNICEF. In 2009, at just 17 years old, she became the youngest-ever UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for the United States, a role she has passionately embraced for over a decade. [1, 19, 23, 26, 31]

Through her work with UNICEF, Gomez has actively supported the rights of the world's most vulnerable children, participating in numerous campaigns, events, and initiatives. She has undertaken field missions to various countries, including Ghana, Chile, and Nepal, witnessing firsthand the impact of UNICEF's work in providing education, nutrition, health, and protection to children. [19, 26, 31] She has been a strong advocate for initiatives like the UNICEF Tap Project, which focuses on sanitation and hygiene, and has served multiple times as the official spokesperson for "Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF," helping to raise millions of dollars for the organization. [19, 23, 31] Her dedication extends to supporting global health efforts, as evidenced by her contribution to providing critical vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic response. [19]

Advocacy for Mental Health

Drawing from her own deeply personal experiences, Selena Gomez has emerged as a powerful and outspoken advocate for destigmatizing mental illness and promoting mental health awareness. Her candidness about her struggles with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder has been incredibly influential, fostering a much-needed conversation around mental wellbeing and providing a voice for countless individuals facing similar challenges. [1, 18, 21, 26, 29] She has shared openly about seeking mental health treatment since 2014, including therapy multiple times a week to manage her symptoms, and specifically her diagnosis with bipolar disorder in 2020. [18, 24, 29]

Gomez has utilized her various platforms to further this advocacy. Her documentary film, Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me, released in 2022, offers a raw and intimate look into her six-year journey navigating physical and mental health challenges. [5, 12, 18, 33, 39] The film was praised for its transparency regarding mental health, and Gomez expressed her desire for it to start a broader conversation. [5, 18] Through her beauty brand, Rare Beauty, she established the Rare Impact Fund, committing to raise US$100 million over ten years to expand access to mental health services and education for young people globally. [7, 16, 26, 32] This initiative donates a percentage of all Rare Beauty sales to the fund, collaborating with philanthropic foundations and corporate partners to achieve its ambitious goal. [7]

Navigating Health Challenges: Lupus, Kidney Transplant, and Ongoing Care

Selena Gomez has faced significant health battles, most notably her diagnosis with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain throughout the body. [2, 15, 18] She publicly revealed her lupus diagnosis in 2015. [20] The disease severely impacted her kidneys, leading to the necessity of a kidney transplant. In September 2017, Gomez courageously shared on Instagram that she had undergone a kidney transplant at just 24 years old, due to lupus-related organ damage. [2, 4, 15] Her best friend, Francia Raisa, selflessly donated her kidney, a profound act of friendship that Gomez has publicly acknowledged with immense gratitude. [4, 15, 20]

The announcement of her transplant brought a significant wave of discussion and awareness to lupus, a disease that is often misunderstood. [2] Lupus can cause the immune system to attack healthy cells and organs, and for many, including Gomez, it can lead to kidney complications, known as lupus nephritis, which can result in kidney failure if not properly managed. [2, 15, 17, 20] After her transplant, Gomez requires immunosuppressant medications to prevent organ rejection, which increases her risk of infection, a common side effect for transplant recipients. [2, 17]

Beyond the physical toll of lupus and the transplant, Gomez has also openly discussed the mental health implications of living with a chronic illness and the intense scrutiny of public life. In August 2016, she canceled tour dates due to anxiety and depression exacerbated by her lupus, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing her "overall health." [15] Her journey highlights the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, demonstrating her resilience and advocacy in sharing her ongoing battle.

The Journey with Mental Health

Selena Gomez's journey with mental health has been a continuous and evolving process, marked by profound transparency and a commitment to self-care. She has openly discussed her struggles with anxiety, depression, and, as revealed in 2020 during an Instagram Live with Miley Cyrus, her diagnosis of bipolar disorder. [18, 29] This candidness has not only humanized her in the public eye but also served as a powerful catalyst for broader conversations about mental illness, encouraging others to seek help and acknowledge their own struggles without shame. [18, 21, 29]

Gomez has shared that understanding her diagnoses has provided her with a sense of freedom and control, empowering her to embrace her story. [18, 21] She has engaged in various forms of therapy, including individual, group, and equine therapy, and credits dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) with profoundly changing her life. [24] A significant aspect of her mental health management has been her conscious effort to limit her engagement with social media, which she described as "consuming" and detrimental to her self-esteem. She has even deleted the app and allows her assistant to post on her behalf to protect her mental well-being. [24]

Her documentary, My Mind & Me, powerfully illustrates her long-standing battle with mental health, including experiences with psychosis and bipolar depression, and the deep emotional toll of constantly being in the public eye. [36, 39] In the film, she vulnerably shares how she associated her bedroom with dark times, leading her to no longer sleep there. [36] Gomez's consistent message emphasizes that mental health is an ongoing journey, acknowledging that there will be ups and downs, but stressing the importance of self-belief and doing the necessary work to achieve inner peace. [18, 21, 39]

Public Life and Relationships

Selena Gomez's public life has often been intertwined with intense media scrutiny, particularly concerning her personal relationships. Her high-profile romances, most notably with pop superstar Justin Bieber, were subject to relentless media attention and public fascination for years. These relationships, played out under the global spotlight, contributed to the immense pressure and emotional challenges she faced, as documented in her recent work. The constant speculation and intrusion into her private life have been a recurring theme throughout her career, making it challenging to maintain boundaries. [8, 34]

Despite the pervasive public interest, Gomez has maintained a relatively private approach to discussing the intricate details of her relationships, focusing instead on her growth and well-being. She has often spoken about the impact of fame on her personal life, including feelings of isolation and the difficulty of forming genuine connections. Her experiences highlight the unique challenges faced by individuals who grow up in the public eye, where personal milestones and heartbreaks become fodder for global consumption.

Cultural Impact and Role Model Status

Selena Gomez's journey from a beloved Disney star to a multifaceted global icon has had a profound cultural impact. Her authenticity, particularly in addressing sensitive topics like mental health and chronic illness, has resonated deeply with millions worldwide, transforming her into a significant role model. By openly sharing her vulnerabilities and challenges, she has helped to destigmatize mental health discussions, encouraging her vast fanbase to seek help and practice self-acceptance. [18, 21, 29]

Her influence extends across various domains, from music and acting to business and philanthropy. She is one of the most-followed women on Instagram, leveraging her immense social media presence for advocacy and to connect directly with her audience. [1, 15, 27] Gomez has been recognized for her impact, appearing on listicles such as the Time 100 (2020) and Forbes 30 Under 30 (2016 and 2020). [1, 42] She was named Billboard's Woman of the Year in 2017 and Latin Women of the Year in 2025, further cementing her status as a leading figure in entertainment and culture. [1, 25] Her ventures like Rare Beauty are not just successful businesses but also platforms for social change, aligning commerce with purpose.

Looking Ahead: The Ongoing Evolution of Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez continues to evolve as an artist, entrepreneur, and advocate, with new projects and endeavors consistently on the horizon. Her recent Golden Globe nominations for both Only Murders in the Building and Emilia Pérez underscore her ongoing success and critical acclaim in the acting world, signaling a dynamic future in film and television. [42, 44] Her collaborative album I Said I Love You First with Benny Blanco, released in 2025, also demonstrates her continued engagement and innovation in the music industry. [3, 11]

Beyond entertainment, Gomez remains steadfast in her commitment to her business ventures, particularly Rare Beauty, which continues to grow and expand its global reach. The Rare Impact Fund, driven by Rare Beauty's success, is poised to make an even greater impact in providing mental health resources and education to young people worldwide, reflecting her deep personal dedication to the cause. [7, 16] As Gomez navigates her thirties, her career trajectory suggests a continued focus on projects that are not only creatively fulfilling but also aligned with her values of authenticity, self-acceptance, and social responsibility. Her story is a compelling narrative of navigating the complexities of fame with grace, resilience, and an unwavering desire to make a positive difference in the world.

Researcher: Beyonddennis