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Selena Gomez shares a deep connection with Emilia Pérez, her first Spanish-speaking film, which holds a significant place in her heart. During a Q&A session after the film's screening at the Toronto Film Festival on September 9, Gomez, now 32, opened up about why this project resonates so deeply with her.
"It was fascinating because I had the chance to create a character that mirrors many aspects of who I am," Gomez explained. In the film, she portrays Jessi Del Monte, the wife of drug cartel leader Emilia Pérez (played by Karla Sofía Gascón), who is attempting to fake her death.
Gomez emphasized the importance of her character's identity. "I feel like many Latinx communities in the U.S., and even globally, will relate to this. I'm thrilled we were able to make her a Latina because that represents me," she shared. Though fluent in understanding, Gomez added with a laugh, "Just don't ask me to respond." She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform in Spanish, stating, "I'm so thankful we pulled it off."
Known for her role in Only Murders in the Building, Gomez also sings in Emilia Pérez. Reflecting on her experience, she admitted it was her first time acting in Spanish and confessed, "I was incredibly nervous."
Alongside Gomez, the film—directed by Jacques Audiard—features a notable cast, including Zoe Saldaña, who plays a lawyer named Rita. At its premiere during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, the movie received a lengthy standing ovation, moving Gomez to tears, according to Variety and Deadline.
Gomez also turned heads at the film's events, donning two striking outfits curated by her stylist, Erin Walsh. For the Emilia Pérez photocall, she wore a custom rosy red Giambattista Valli gown, while for the red carpet, she opted for an elegant black-and-white Saint Laurent off-the-shoulder ensemble.
In August, Gomez shared an emotional Instagram video of the moment she learned she had landed the role. In the video, she tearfully exclaimed, "I can't believe I got the movie! I'm about to cry, but I won't."
Emilia Pérez premieres in select theaters on November 1 and will be available on Netflix starting November 13.
