Selena Gomez is an American singer, actress, producer, and entrepreneur, born on July 22, 1992. She rose to fame as a Disney Channel star before building a successful music career with chart-topping albums and global hits. Selena has also earned acclaim as a film and TV producer and founded the beauty brand Rare Beauty.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Selena Gomez
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Selena Marie Gomez |
| Date of Birth | July 22, 1992 |
| Age | 34 Years Old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Grand Prairie, Texas, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | 119 lbs (54 kg) |
| Net Worth | $1.3 Billion (2026) |
| Spouse | Benny Blanco (married September 2026) |
| Profession | Singer, Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mexican-American, Italian-American |
Who Is Selena Gomez?
Selena Gomez is one of the most influential entertainers of our generation. She’s an Emmy-nominated actress, Grammy-nominated singer, successful entrepreneur, and mental health advocate who has built an empire worth over $1 billion.
Born in Grand Prairie, Texas, Selena rose from humble beginnings to become a Disney Channel sensation, chart-topping music artist, and the founder of Rare Beauty, one of the fastest-growing makeup brands in America. With over 400 million Instagram followers (the first woman to reach this milestone), she’s not just a celebrity—she’s a cultural phenomenon.
What sets Selena apart is her authenticity. She’s been open about her struggles with lupus, mental health challenges, and the pressures of fame. This vulnerability has created a deep connection with fans worldwide who see her as more than just another Hollywood star.
Early Life and Family Background
Childhood in Grand Prairie, Texas
Selena Marie Gomez was born on July 22, 1992, in Grand Prairie, Texas. Her parents were teenagers when she arrived—her mother, Amanda “Mandy” Cornett (now Mandy Teefey), was just 16 years old. Life wasn’t easy for the young family.
“We didn’t have much,” Selena later recalled. “But I felt like we did because my mom was always doing a hundred million things just to make me happy.”
Selena was named after the legendary Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla, who tragically died in 1995. The name means “moon” in Greek, a fitting tribute for someone who would shine so brightly in the entertainment world.
Parents and Siblings
Selena’s parents, Amanda Teefey (white American) and Ricardo “Rick” Gomez (Mexican-American), divorced when she was just five years old. Her mother raised her as a single parent, working three jobs to make ends meet. They volunteered at soup kitchens on Thanksgiving, and Mandy regularly went through Selena’s closet to donate items to Goodwill.
“My neighborhood was a really rough neighborhood with gangs,” Mandy explained in a 2017 interview. “When I got pregnant, I was like ‘Okay, I have another person depending on me. I gotta get straight.'”
Despite financial struggles, Mandy pursued her dream of acting, bringing young Selena to rehearsals. It was after one of these rehearsals that six-year-old Selena gave her mother an acting tip. “On the way home, she was quiet, and then she goes, ‘You know, Mom, that might be funnier if you did it this way,'” Mandy remembered. “And I thought, Oh, no. She’s going to be an actor.”
Selena’s family expanded over the years:
Mother’s Side:
- Mandy Teefey remarried Brian Teefey in 2006
- Half-sister: Gracie Elliott Teefey (born 2013)
Father’s Side:
- Ricardo Gomez married Sara Tovar Gomez
- Half-sister: Victoria Gomez (born 2014)
- Stepbrother: Marcus Gomez (Sara’s son from previous relationship, born 2008)
Both of Selena’s parents managed her career in the early years until 2014, when she made the difficult decision to part ways professionally while maintaining their personal relationships.
Education
Selena’s education was unconventional due to her early start in entertainment. She initially attended Danny Jones Middle School in Grand Prairie, Texas. However, as her acting career took off, she transitioned to homeschooling.
She earned her high school diploma in May 2010 through homeschool education. While she didn’t attend college, Selena has been a lifelong learner, educating herself about business, mental health advocacy, and the entertainment industry.
“I may not have a traditional college degree, but I’ve had a different kind of education,” Selena once said. “Life has been my classroom.”
Career Journey: From Barney to Billionaire
The Beginning: Barney & Friends (2002-2004)
Selena’s entertainment career began at age seven when she landed a role on the beloved children’s show Barney & Friends alongside Demi Lovato. She played the character Gianna from 2002 to 2004, appearing in 13 episodes.
This early experience taught her professionalism and gave her a taste of what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. However, after two years, she wasn’t renewed for the show—a rejection that would motivate her to work even harder.
Small Roles and Guest Appearances (2003-2006)
Between 2003 and 2006, Selena auditioned for numerous roles with limited success:
- Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over (2003) – Small role
- Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire (2005) – Bit part as Julie
- Brain Zapped (2006) – Role as Emily Grace Garcia
- The Suite Life of Zack & Cody (2006) – Guest appearance as Gwen
Each rejection built her resilience. “I was used to hearing ‘no,'” she later reflected. “But every ‘no’ just made me want it more.”
Disney Channel Breakthrough: Wizards of Waverly Place (2007-2012)
Everything changed in 2007 when Selena was cast as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place. The show followed a family of wizards living in New York City, with Selena playing the rebellious, witty middle child.
The series became a massive hit, running for four seasons and 106 episodes. It won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Children’s Program and launched a successful Disney Channel Original Movie, Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie (2009).
This role made Selena a household name among teenagers and established her as a Disney Channel icon alongside Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers. Her chemistry with co-stars David Henrie and Jake T. Austin created magic that resonated with millions of viewers.
Fun Fact: In October 2024, Disney launched Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, a reboot where Selena guest-starred in the pilot episode and serves as executive producer.
Music Career: Selena Gomez & The Scene
While starring in Wizards, Selena pursued music. She initially recorded songs for soundtracks:
- Another Cinderella Story (2008) – 3 songs
- Tinker Bell (2008)
- “One and the Same” duet with Demi Lovato for Princess Protection Program (2009)
In 2009, she formed the pop band Selena Gomez & The Scene and signed with Hollywood Records. The band released three successful albums:
- Kiss & Tell (2009)
- Hit single: “Naturally”
- Debut at #9 on Billboard 200
- A Year Without Rain (2010)
- Featured “A Year Without Rain” and “Round & Round”
- Gold certification
- When the Sun Goes Down (2011)
- Hit single: “Love You Like a Love Song” (4x Platinum)
- Featured “Who Says”
- Platinum certification
The band dissolved in 2012, but it gave Selena the foundation she needed for her solo career.
Solo Music Success (2013-Present)
Stars Dance (2013)
Selena’s debut solo album dropped in August 2013 and immediately hit #1 on the Billboard 200. The lead single “Come & Get It” became her first Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, going 4x Platinum. “Slow Down” also achieved platinum status.
Revival (2015)
This album marked Selena’s artistic rebirth. Released in October 2015, Revival showcased a more mature, confident sound. It went platinum within six months and produced multiple hits:
- “Good For You” ft. A$AP Rocky (3x Platinum, Top 5 hit)
- “Same Old Love” (3x Platinum)
- “Hands to Myself” (4x Platinum)
- “Kill Em with Kindness” (Platinum)
Rare (2020)
Released in January 2020, Rare debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and gave Selena her first Billboard Hot 100 #1 single with “Lose You to Love Me.” The album’s themes of self-love and personal growth resonated deeply with fans navigating their own challenges.
Revelación EP (2021)
In a return to her Hispanic roots, Selena released this Spanish-language EP in March 2021. Though she admits she’s not fluent in Spanish, she can “sing Spanish really well.” The EP earned her first Grammy nomination for Best Latin Pop Album.
“Speaking Spanish is not too terrible for me, but I’m not fluent,” Selena explained. “I can sing Spanish really well.”
Hit Songs and Collaborations
- “Bad Liar” (2017)
- “It Ain’t Me” with Kygo (2017)
- “Wolves” with Marshmello (2017)
- “Taki Taki” with DJ Snake, Cardi B, and Ozuna (2018)
- “I Can’t Get Enough” with J Balvin, Benny Blanco, and Tainy (2019)
- “Ice Cream” with Blackpink (2020)
- “Calm Down” with Rema (2022) – Global hit
- “Single Soon” (2023)
- “Love On” (2024)
Selena is currently working on a new album expected in 2025 or 2026.
Acting Career Beyond Disney
Hotel Transylvania Franchise (2012-2022)
Selena voiced Mavis, Dracula’s daughter, in all four Hotel Transylvania movies. These animated films grossed over $1.3 billion worldwide, making it one of Sony’s most successful franchises.
Film Roles
- Spring Breakers (2013) – Dramatic departure from her Disney image
- Getaway (2013) with Ethan Hawke
- Behaving Badly (2014)
- The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
- The Dead Don’t Die (2019) – Jim Jarmusch zombie comedy
- Dolittle (2020) – Voice role
- Emilia Pérez (2024) – Spanish-language musical drama
Only Murders in the Building (2021-Present)
This Hulu comedy series became Selena’s biggest acting success since Wizards of Waverly Place. Starring alongside comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short, she plays Mabel Mora, a true crime podcast enthusiast investigating murders in an Upper West Side apartment building.
The show earned her:
- Three Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress in a Comedy Series (2023, 2024, 2025)
- First Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (2024)
- Critical acclaim and a new generation of fans
Season 4 premiered in 2024, and the show has been renewed for Season 5.
Emilia Pérez and Golden Globe Recognition
In 2024, Selena starred in Emilia Pérez, a Spanish-language musical about a Mexican drug lord who transitions to become a woman. Selena plays the drug lord’s wife in this acclaimed film directed by Jacques Audiard.
At the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, Selena and her co-stars (Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Adriana Paz) shared the Best Actress award. In December 2024, she received her first Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Upcoming: Linda Ronstadt Biopic
Selena is set to star as legendary singer Linda Ronstadt in an upcoming biopic directed by David O. Russell. The film is currently in early production stages.
Producer and Behind-the-Scenes Work
In 2008, at just 16 years old, Selena founded July Moon Productions, her production company. She’s served as executive producer on:
- 13 Reasons Why (2017-2020) – Netflix series
- Living Undocumented (2019) – Netflix docuseries
- Selena + Chef (2020-2023) – HBO Max cooking show
- Only Murders in the Building (2021-present)
- Wizards Beyond Waverly Place (2024-present)
- My Mind & Me (2022) – Documentary about her life
Personal Life: Love, Relationships, and Marriage
Marriage to Benny Blanco (2023-Present)
Selena’s relationship with music producer and songwriter Benny Blanco is her most stable and public romance to date. The couple married on September 27, 2025, in an intimate Santa Barbara ceremony.
Their love story is actually quite sweet. They’d known each other for years as collaborators, working together on songs like “Same Old Love” (2015), “I Can’t Get Enough” (2019), and “Single Soon” (2023).
At one point, Selena even asked Benny to set her up with one of his friends. He invited her to a birthday party to meet someone—and that’s when she realized the person she had feelings for was actually Benny himself.
“I was the last one to know,” Benny admitted in an April 2024 interview. “It’s crazy how your partner could just be sitting there the whole time, right in front of your eyes, and you don’t even notice.”
They began dating in June 2023 and went public with their relationship in December 2023. One year later, in December 2024, Benny proposed, and Selena said yes.
“I guess this is the safest I’ve ever felt in one, and I see a future with this person,” Selena told The Hollywood Reporter in November 2024.
Past Relationships
Justin Bieber (On and Off 2010-2018)
Selena’s most famous relationship was with pop star Justin Bieber. They met in 2009 and began dating in 2010 when both were rising stars. Their on-again, off-again romance lasted until early 2018 and was heavily documented by media and paparazzi.
The relationship was tumultuous, with multiple breakups and reconciliations. Many of Selena’s songs reference this relationship, including “The Heart Wants What It Wants” (2014) and “Lose You to Love Me” (2019).
Justin married Hailey Baldwin (now Hailey Bieber) in September 2018, just months after his final split from Selena.
Other Notable Relationships
- Nick Jonas (2008-2010) – Teen romance with the Jonas Brothers singer
- The Weeknd (2017) – Brief but intense relationship with Canadian singer Abel Tesfaye
- Zedd (2015) – Short-lived romance with the DJ/producer
- Rumored connections with Taylor Lautner, Orlando Bloom, and Niall Horan
Business Empire: Rare Beauty and Beyond
Rare Beauty (2020-Present)
Selena’s biggest financial success is Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez, her cosmetics line launched in September 2020. The brand has become a phenomenon, particularly popular on TikTok and among Gen Z consumers.
Financial Success:
- The company sold over $70 million in liquid blush alone in 2023
- Estimated brand valuation: $2 billion
- Expected to triple sales year-over-year
- Primary driver of Selena’s billionaire status
What makes Rare Beauty different is its mission. The brand emphasizes self-acceptance and mental health awareness. Each product is designed to enhance natural beauty rather than covering it up.
Rare Impact Fund
One percent of all Rare Beauty sales go to the Rare Impact Fund, a charitable organization dedicated to mental health. As of September 2024, the fund has raised over $16 million to provide mental health services to underserved communities.
Other Business Ventures
Fashion:
- Dream Out Loud (2010) – Eco-friendly clothing line
- Coach Collaboration (2017-2018) – Selena Grace handbag line and ready-to-wear collection
Endorsements: Selena has been a spokesperson for numerous major brands:
- Puma
- Coach
- Pantene
- Coca-Cola
- Louis Vuitton
- Adidas NEO
- Borden Milk
Health Journey: Lupus, Mental Health, and Advocacy
Lupus Diagnosis and Kidney Transplant
In 2014, Selena revealed she had been battling lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause fatigue, joint pain, facial swelling, and organ damage. She underwent chemotherapy as part of her treatment and took a break from the spotlight in 2015 to focus on her health.
The situation became life-threatening in 2017. Lupus had damaged Selena’s kidneys so severely that she needed a transplant. Her roommate and close friend, actress Francia Raísa, volunteered to donate one of her kidneys.
“It actually got to a point where it was life-or-death,” Selena revealed at a 2017 Lupus Research Alliance gala. “Thankfully, one of my best friends gave me her kidney, and it was the ultimate gift of life.”
The transplant was successful, though there were complications during surgery. Selena has a 3-5% chance of lupus resurfacing, but she’s remained healthy since the procedure.
She’s used her platform to raise awareness about lupus, helping the Lupus Research Alliance raise over $500,000 toward research.
Mental Health Advocacy
In April 2020, Selena revealed she’d been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She opened up about her diagnosis during an Instagram Live conversation with Miley Cyrus.
“When I got to know more information, it actually helps me,” Selena explained. “It doesn’t scare me once I know it.”
In 2022, she released a deeply personal documentary, Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me on Apple TV+. The film chronicles her struggles with anxiety, depression, and the pressures of fame.
“I’m gonna be honest, I didn’t want to go to the mental health hospital,” she admits in the documentary. “But I didn’t want to be trapped in myself and my mind anymore.”
Watching the final cut was difficult. “It’s very hard for me to watch,” she said in 2023. “I will never watch it again, but I’m very proud of it.”
Fertility Challenges
In 2024, Selena revealed she’s unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical complications. “I have a lot of medical issues that would put my life and the baby’s life in jeopardy,” she told Vanity Fair.
Despite this, she still dreams of becoming a mother through surrogacy or adoption. “It’s not necessarily the way I envisioned it,” she said. “I thought it would happen the way it happens for everyone. But I’m excited for what that journey will look like.”
Physical Statistics
| Measurement | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’5″ (165 cm) |
| Weight | 119 lbs (54 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 36-28-35 inches |
| Bra Size | 34B |
| Dress Size | 6 (US) |
| Shoe Size | 7 (US) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown (naturally) / Often dyed |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Distinctive Features | Several tattoos including a music note on her wrist |
Selena is known for experimenting with different hairstyles, from her signature dark locks to platinum blonde, from sleek bobs to long, wavy extensions. She’s also a fan of tattoos, with at least 8 visible tattoos including a music note, a semicolon (mental health awareness), and Arabic script.
Awards and Recognition
Selena Gomez has earned numerous accolades throughout her career:
Major Nominations:
- Grammy Award – Best Latin Pop Album (Revelación, 2022)
- Emmy Award – Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy (Only Murders, 2024)
- Golden Globe Awards – 4 nominations (3 for Only Murders, 1 for Emilia Pérez)
Awards Won (Selected):
- American Music Award – Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist
- Billboard Women in Music – Woman of the Year (2017)
- 8 Guinness World Records – Including most followed woman on Instagram
- 11 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards
- ALMA Award – Favorite TV Actress
- Gracie Award – Best Female Lead in a Drama Series
- MTV Video Music Awards – Best Pop Video
- People’s Choice Awards – Multiple wins
- Teen Choice Awards – Multiple wins
- Cannes Film Festival – Best Actress (shared, 2024)
In total, Selena has won over 110 awards from more than 330 nominations.
Net Worth: How Selena Became a Billionaire
As of 2026, Selena Gomez net worth is estimated at $1.3 billion, making her one of the youngest self-made billionaires in America.
Net Worth Breakdown:
Rare Beauty – Approximately $1.1 billion
- The cosmetics brand is valued at $2 billion
- Selena owns a significant stake in the company
- Primary source of her billionaire status
Acting Income – Approximately $80 million
- $6+ million per season of Only Murders in the Building
- Film roles and voice acting (Hotel Transylvania franchise)
- Producing credits
Music Catalog – Approximately $50 million
- Streaming royalties
- Concert tours
- Music publishing rights
Real Estate – Approximately $20 million
- Multiple properties in California
Brand Endorsements – Approximately $50 million+
- Coach, Puma, Pantene, and other partnerships
Net Worth Growth Over Time:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2018 | $50 million |
| 2019 | $65 million |
| 2020 | $75 million |
| 2021 | $85 million |
| 2022 | $95 million |
| 2023 | $800 million |
| 2024 | $1.1 billion |
| 2025 | $1.3 billion |
According to Bloomberg, Selena officially joined the billionaire ranks in September 2024, with the vast majority of her wealth coming from Rare Beauty’s explosive growth.
Social Media Influence
Selena Gomez is one of the most followed people on social media:
- Instagram: 400+ million followers (first woman to reach this milestone in March 2023)
- Twitter/X: 67+ million followers
- Facebook: 90+ million followers
- TikTok: 60+ million followers
- Total Social Reach: 600+ million followers across platforms
She’s used her massive platform for activism, mental health advocacy, and promoting body positivity. Unlike many celebrities, Selena takes frequent social media breaks to protect her mental health.
“Taking a break from social media was the most rewarding gift I ever gave myself,” she once said.
Activism and Philanthropy
UNICEF Ambassador
In 2009, at age 17, Selena became the youngest UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in the organization’s history. She’s traveled to Ghana, Chile, and Nepal to advocate for children’s rights and raise awareness about issues affecting young people worldwide.
Mental Health Advocacy
Through the Rare Impact Fund and her personal platform, Selena has become one of Hollywood’s most vocal mental health advocates. She’s helped destigmatize conversations about therapy, medication, and mental health treatment.
Other Causes:
- Lupus research and awareness
- Immigration rights (Living Undocumented docuseries)
- LGBTQ+ rights
- Body positivity and self-acceptance
- Education access
Interesting Facts About Selena Gomez
- Named After a Legend: She’s named after Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla, who died tragically in 1995.
- First Kiss: Her first kiss was with Dylan Sprouse at age 12 on the set of The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.
- Youngest UNICEF Ambassador: At 17, she became the youngest UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador ever appointed.
- Instagram Queen: First woman to reach 400 million Instagram followers.
- Polyglot Efforts: Though not fluent, she can sing beautifully in Spanish, as proven by her EP Revelación.
- Close with Taylor Swift: She’s been best friends with Taylor Swift since 2008, one of Hollywood’s most enduring female friendships.
- Production Powerhouse: She’s produced multiple hit shows including 13 Reasons Why and Only Murders in the Building.
- Favorite Foods: Pizza is her go-to post-show meal. She also loves lemon chicken, vodka penne, and strawberries with whipped cream.
- Fashion Icon: She’s collaborated with Coach on two fashion collections and has been named to numerous best-dressed lists.
- Tattoo Collection: She has at least 8 tattoos, each with personal meaning, including a semicolon for mental health awareness.
- Musical Influences: She considers Bruno Mars her biggest musical influence and idol.
- Acting Over Music: Despite her music success, Selena has always said, “Acting has always been my first love. Music is just a hobby that went out of control.”
Favorite Things
Favorite Actors: Johnny Depp, Nick Jonas, Taylor Lautner, Shia LaBeouf
Favorite Actresses: Megan Fox, Rachel McAdams
Favorite Singers: Bruno Mars, Cheryl Cole, Kelly Clarkson, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Skrillex, Paramore
Favorite Movie: The Wizard of Oz
Favorite TV Show: Black Mirror
Favorite Books:
- On Becoming Fearless by Arianna Huffington
- The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Favorite Destination: Paris
Favorite Designers: Stuart Vevers (Coach), Nicolas Ghesquière (Louis Vuitton)
Style Icon: Gwyneth Paltrow
Frequently Asked Question
How old is Selena Gomez?
Selena Gomez is 334years old as of 2026. She was born on July 22, 1992.
How tall is Selena Gomez?
Selena Gomez is 5 feet 5 inches tall (165 cm).
Is Selena Gomez married?
Yes, Selena Gomez married music producer Benny Blanco on September 27, 2025.
What is Selena Gomez’s net worth?
As of 2026, Selena Gomez net worth is estimated at $1.3 billion, primarily from her Rare Beauty cosmetics line.
Did Selena Gomez date Justin Bieber?
Yes, Selena and Justin Bieber had an on-and-off relationship from 2010 to 2018. They broke up for good in early 2018, and Justin married Hailey Baldwin later that year.
What disease does Selena Gomez have?
Selena Gomez has lupus, an autoimmune disease. She underwent a kidney transplant in 2017 due to complications from lupus. She also has bipolar disorder, which she publicly disclosed in 2020.
Who donated a kidney to Selena Gomez?
Actress Francia Raísa, Selena’s close friend and roommate, donated a kidney to her in 2017.
Conclusion
At just 34 years old, Selena Gomez has already accomplished what most people can only dream of. She’s transitioned from child star to respected actress, from teen pop singer to Grammy-nominated artist, and from celebrity spokesperson to billionaire entrepreneur.
But what truly sets her apart is her authenticity. In an industry that often demands perfection, Selena has chosen vulnerability. She’s shared her health struggles, mental health journey, and personal challenges with millions of fans who feel less alone because of her honesty.