Fresh Air: Selena Gomez Has Found Her Balance
Host: Tonya Mosley
Guest: Selena Gomez
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
Introduction
In this episode of Fresh Air, host Tonya Mosley sits down with multifaceted superstar Selena Gomez. The conversation delves into Selena's latest ventures in acting and music, her personal struggles with health and mental well-being, and her experiences navigating fame from a young age. Notably, Selena discusses her role in the Spanish-language musical film "Amelia Perez", her character development, and the impact of her work on her personal growth.
Overview of Selena Gomez's Career
Tonya Mosley begins by highlighting Selena Gomez's diverse career:
- Acting: From her early days on "Barney & Friends" to her breakout role in "Wizards of Waverly Place", Selena has established herself as a talented actress.
- Music: With 16 consecutive top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, she boasts the longest active run of any artist in that chart.
- Entrepreneurship: As the founder of Rare Beauty, Selena has made significant strides in the beauty industry.
- Recent Work: Her role in "Only Murders in the Building" alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short earned her an Emmy nomination.
Quote:
Tonya Mosley (02:56): "Selena Gomez is an actor, singer and the founder of the successful cosmetic line Rare Beauty."
"Amelia Perez" and Language Mastery
Selena Gomez's commitment to her craft is evident in her latest role in "Amelia Perez", a Spanish-language musical film. The film centers on Jesse Del Monte, portrayed by Selena, who is the wife of a cartel leader undergoing gender-affirming surgery. To authentically portray her character, Selena dedicated nearly six months to relearn and perfect her Spanish.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (03:12): "I was fluent when I was seven and before then all up until then. But I got my first job at seven and most of my jobs from that point on were English and I moved from Texas to California to pursue my dream with Disney and I again just lost it."
Cultural Heritage and Personal Growth
Selena emphasizes the importance of honoring her Mexican-American heritage. Despite growing up primarily in English-speaking environments, she actively incorporates her culture into her work and personal life, expressing a desire to maintain and celebrate her linguistic and cultural roots.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (04:14): "I do. And don't try to talk anything around me because I will know what you're saying if you think that I can."
Exploring Themes in "Amelia Perez"
The film explores complex themes such as transformation, identity, and liberation. Selena's character navigates her husband's drastic life changes while seeking her own freedom from a brutal environment.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (07:29): "I think that when I do make mistakes, I don't feel like I should or necessarily need to be punished for them. It's something that I feel like I need to grow and learn from."
Early Career and Influences
Selena shares memories of her early acting experiences, particularly her time on "Barney & Friends", and how her young mother influenced her love for the arts. She reflects on the blend of discipline and creativity that shaped her foundational years in entertainment.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (10:03): "I just thought, this is something I really want to do, and I hope I get it."
Transition to Mature Roles and "Only Murders in the Building"
Discussing her role in "Only Murders in the Building", Selena highlights the supportive and enriching environment fostered by co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short. She appreciates their mentorship and the familial atmosphere on set, which provided her a safe space to grow as an actress.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (14:57): "They made me feel incredibly included. If they would change a joke or want to try something different, they would always incorporate me into the conversation."
Working with Meryl Streep
Selena recounts her experience working with Meryl Streep in season three of "Only Murders in the Building". She praises Streep's humility, work ethic, and the genuine connections she fostered on set, leaving a lasting impression on Selena.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (19:19): "She was an absolute class act. She doesn't take herself too seriously. She just has a good sense of humor about the icon that she is."
Personal Struggles: Health and Mental Wellness
A significant portion of the conversation addresses Selena Gomez's battles with lupus and bipolar disorder. She candidly discusses her diagnosis, the challenges of seeking help, and the journey toward finding balance and mental stability.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (33:46): "My diagnosis was actually a huge relief. I felt so much better because... that knowledge gave me freedom."
Navigating Fame from a Young Age
Selena reflects on the complexities of growing up in the public eye, the loss of privacy, and the protective role her family played in safeguarding her well-being. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and the support she received from her parents.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (31:12): "My mom was very protective of me in the best possible way. And though maybe it didn't make much sense to me then, I could not be more grateful now."
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Selena Gomez expressing gratitude for her journey, the lessons learned, and her ongoing commitment to personal growth and authenticity. Tonya Mosley wraps up the conversation, highlighting Selena's resilience and the inspiring balance she has achieved in her life and career.
Quote:
Selena Gomez (36:13): "I am not scared of my bipolar anymore. I'm just making it my friend."
Key Takeaways
- Dedication to Craft: Selena's commitment to learning Spanish for her role in "Amelia Perez" underscores her dedication to authenticity in acting.
- Cultural Pride: She actively honors her Mexican-American heritage through her work and personal endeavors.
- Supportive Collaborations: Working with industry legends like Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Meryl Streep has been instrumental in her growth as an actress.
- Personal Resilience: Overcoming health challenges and mental health struggles has shaped Selena's outlook and approach to life and career.
- Balanced Success: Selena exemplifies how one can navigate fame, personal challenges, and professional achievements with grace and resilience.
This in-depth conversation offers listeners a comprehensive look into Selena Gomez's multifaceted life, her artistic journey, and the personal battles she has overcome to find balance and fulfillment.