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Selena Gomez on Hollywood's Isolation & Using Humor for Positivity
2024-12-11
Selena Gomez, the renowned star, has been making waves in the entertainment industry. With a best supporting actress Golden Globe nomination and various notable events, she continues to shine. Her journey and words hold valuable lessons for both young and established artists.

Selena Gomez - A Beacon of Hope in Hollywood

Golden Globe Nomination and Academy Luncheon

Selena Gomez, at the age of 32, achieved a remarkable feat by earning a best supporting actress Golden Globe nomination on Monday, December 9. The very next day, she was still absorbing the moment at the Academy Women’s Luncheon Presented by Chanel. This event held in Los Angeles at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures was a significant gathering. Sitting next to Ariana Grande, another awards season favorite who rose to fame as a child star on Nickelodeon’s Victorious, Gomez expressed her overwhelming emotions. “I’m overwhelmed, very, very honored and grateful,” she told PEOPLE. “I can’t wait to see what happens.”This shared experience at the luncheon highlighted the bond among these talented women. Gomez emphasized in her keynote speech how she has found community in recent years. “I know firsthand how isolating this industry will feel at times, but moments like this and rooms like this, and talking to all these amazing women just reminds me that I’m not alone, and we aren’t alone,” she said, gesturing to her table where Grande sat along with stars including Amy Adams, Pamela Anderson, Awkwafina, Gal Gadot, Rita Wilson, Mila Kunis and Olivia Wilde.

Staying Positive in a Negative World

On the red carpet, Gomez shared her secret to staying positive amid moments of negative discourse. “It’s humor for me,” she told PEOPLE. “I know people say it’s a defense mechanism, however, I think it’s a great distraction from all of the noise sometimes. And just to have a laugh with your friends or do something that can bring you a little bit of light.” Her ability to find joy in the midst of challenges serves as an inspiration.For those feeling lonely in Hollywood, Gomez is ready to offer a helping hand. “To the young women watching us, I just want you to know that you are heard and you are seen, and your perspective matters deeply. And if you ever feel lonely at any event, I’m usually on my phone, playing some sort of weird game. Just come up to me, and I’ll be happy to chat,” she grinned on stage.

Sisterhood on the Set of 'Emilia Perez'

While working on the set of Emilia Perez, Selena Gomez created a special sisterhood with her costars Zoe Saldaña and Karla Sofia Gascon. “Genuinely the whole experience of the movie was [supportive],” she recalls. “It became like this bond that we almost needed to do the rest of the film because some of it was very dark and angry. They brought so much light into my life and I’m astounded at who they are and their hearts. I just look up to them. I can tell them anything.” This sense of camaraderie is a testament to her ability to connect with others.

Academy Gold Fellowship for Women

Tuesday’s luncheon celebrated the Academy Gold Fellowship for Women, a program dedicated to supporting emerging women filmmakers. Made possible by Chanel, this initiative reflects the fashion house’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation. With this year’s fellowships granted to Raha Amirfazli and Shadi Karamroudi, it is a significant step forward in promoting gender equality in the film industry.Emilia Perez is now available to stream on Netflix, allowing audiences to further immerse themselves in Gomez’s world and the stories she tells.
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