Selena Gomez is an American singer, actress, producer, songwriter, and social media mega-star with a net worth of $1 billion. The majority of her wealth comes from her highly successful makeup company, Rare Beauty.
Early Life
Selena Marie Gomez was born on July 22, 1992, in Grand Prairie, Texas, to Ricardo Joel Gomez and former stage actress Amanda Dawn Cornett. Her mother was just sixteen when she gave birth. Selena was named after singer Selena Quintanilla-Perez. After her parents divorced when she was five, she remained with her mother, facing financial struggles. She obtained her high school diploma through homeschooling in May 2010.
Early Career
Selena’s career began as a child actress on “Barney & Friends” from 2002 to 2004, playing Gianna in 14 episodes. She made minor appearances in “Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over” (2003) and “Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire” (2005). In 2006, she guest-starred in “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody” and had a recurring role as a pop star in Disney’s “Hannah Montana” (2007).
Acting Career
Her breakthrough came with “Wizards of Waverly Place” (2007-2012), where she earned $30,000 per episode. The series spanned 106 episodes and two movies. She later starred in films like “Another Cinderella Story,” “Princess Protection Program,” and “Ramona and Beezus.” In 2021, she began starring in Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short.
Music Career
At 16, Selena signed with Hollywood Records, joining Miley Cyrus and Demi Lovato. She released three studio albums with her band, Selena Gomez & The Scene, all achieving Gold status. She also embarked on multiple solo and band tours.
Social Media Influence
Selena is one of the most-followed celebrities on social media. She has over 58 million TikTok followers, 420 million Instagram followers (the first woman to reach 400 million), and 33 million YouTube subscribers with nearly 13 billion views.
Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond entertainment, Selena is a savvy entrepreneur:
- Rare Beauty: Launched in September 2020 at Sephora, the brand generated $100 million in 2022 and an estimated $350 million in 2023. With a 51% ownership, its valuation is at least $1.4 billion, with reports of a potential $2 billion acquisition.
- Serendipity Ice Cream: Co-owner and investor since 2020.
- Wondermind: Co-founder of the mental health startup, which raised $5 million at a $100 million valuation in 2022.
Endorsements
- Puma: In 2017, she signed a two-year $30 million deal, making her the face of the brand alongside Rihanna.
- Coach: In 2016, she signed a $10 million endorsement deal and launched her own line.
- Instagram Earnings: Estimated to earn between $500,000 and $800,000 per sponsored post, with posts valued at up to $3.5 million.
Personal Life
Selena dated Nick Jonas in 2008 and had a high-profile, on-and-off relationship with Justin Bieber from 2010-2018. She was also linked to The Weeknd in 2017. In December 2023, she confirmed dating producer Benny Blanco, and by December 2024, they were engaged. Her closest industry friend is Taylor Swift.
Philanthropy
A dedicated humanitarian, Selena serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and works with Do.Something.org, RAISE Hope for Congo, and the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. She frequently visits children’s hospitals and supports various charitable causes.
Health Challenges
Selena was diagnosed with lupus in 2014 and received a kidney transplant from actress Francia Raisa in 2017. In 2020, she revealed her diagnosis of bipolar disorder and later disclosed experiencing psychosis in 2018.
Real Estate Holdings
- Tarzana, CA (2011): Purchased for $2.175 million, sold in 2014 for $3.45 million.
- Calabasas, CA (2014): Bought for $3.69 million, later sold at a slight loss.
- Fort Worth, TX (2015): Sold in 2020 for $2.4 million.
- Studio City, CA (2017): Bought for $2.249 million, sold a year later.
- Encino, CA (2020): Acquired an 11,500-square-foot estate for $4.9 million.
Net Worth Growth Over Time
- 2009: $1 million (Wizards of Waverly Place earnings)
- 2011: $5 million
- 2013: $10 million (debut solo album)
- 2015: $18 million (Instagram, endorsements)
- 2018: $60 million (Puma, Coach, music, acting)
- 2019: $75 million
- 2023: $800 million (Rare Beauty success)
- 2024: Officially became a billionaire
Selena Gomez has built a multi-faceted empire, balancing a flourishing career in music, acting, business, and philanthropy while maintaining a strong social presence. Her continued success in various fields solidifies her as one of the most influential celebrities of her generation.
