Selena Gomez Talks About First Spanish-Speaking Role

Selena Gomez recently stepped into uncharted territory with Emilia Pérez, her first role in a Spanish-speaking film. During a Q&A at the Toronto Film Festival on September 9, Selena, now 32, opened up about why this project holds deep personal meaning for her.

In her own words, she said, “And actually, I believe a lot of Latinx communities in America. I think it’s also everywhere. But I, I’m just really, I’m really glad that we were able to make her Latin American because that’s who I am.” For many in America’s Latinx communities, this film is a source of pride, and for Selena, it’s a return to her cultural heritage.

Though Selena understands Spanish well, speaking it fluently was a challenge. She admitted with a laugh, “I can understand anyone having a conversation, but don’t ask me to answer!” 

Despite this, she embraced the challenge with grace and determination. “And I, I’m really grateful though that we were able to pull that off…I was so nervous,” she stated.

The movie, directed by Jacques Audiard, also features Zoe Saldaña, who plays a lawyer named Rita. Both actresses bring power and emotion to the screen, a fact that didn’t go unnoticed when Emilia Pérez premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. The movie received a standing ovation that lasted for minutes, bringing Selena to tears. 

She later shared her excitement and gratitude with her fans, saying, “I can’t believe I got the movie! I’m so gonna cry right now, I don’t want to cry.”

Selena’s fashion choices also made a statement at the Toronto premiere. She dazzled in two stunning outfits, put together by her stylist Erin Walsh. She wore a custom rosy red Giambattista Valli gown for the Emilia Pérez photocall and a sleek black-and-white Saint Laurent off-the-shoulder dress for the red carpet event.

The Come And Get It singer’s passion for this film, her culture, and her craft is undeniable. She’s proven time and time again that she’s not just a pop star but a woman willing to take risks and embrace every part of who she is.

Emilia Pérez hits select theaters on November 1 and will stream on Netflix starting November 13.