Selena Gomez has publicly addressed critiques of her Spanish-speaking abilities in the Netflix film Emilia Pérez, reaffirming her dedication to the role and her commitment to honoring her cultural heritage. The criticism came after comedian Eugenio Derbez described her Spanish as "indefensible" during an episode of the podcast Hablando de Cine.
The Critique
Derbez, a prominent figure in the Latinx entertainment industry, remarked that Gomez's limited Spanish proficiency detracted from the film's overall authenticity. "I was [watching the movie] with people, and every time a scene [with her] appeared, we looked at each other and said, 'Wow, what is this?'" he commented, sparking significant debate within the community.
Gomez’s Response
In response, Gomez highlighted the considerable effort she put into preparing for the role, which included six months of intensive Spanish lessons. While she grew up in a Spanish-speaking household, Gomez admitted that her proficiency diminished as she prioritized her entertainment career from a young age.
“I worked hard to reconnect with the language and culture that shaped my upbringing,” Gomez stated, emphasizing her determination to grow as an artist. She also confirmed that Emilia Pérez would not be her last Spanish-language project, signaling her ongoing commitment to exploring and celebrating her heritage through her work.
Derbez Issues an Apology
Amid backlash for his remarks, Derbez issued a public apology, expressing regret for his harsh words. Acknowledging Gomez's achievements, he praised her career and underscored the positive aspects of Emilia Pérez, urging audiences to celebrate the film and its contributions to Latinx representation in media.
“I realize now that we, as a community, need to uplift one another,” Derbez said, emphasizing the importance of mutual support among Latino artists.
Cultural Conversations Sparked
The exchange between Gomez and Derbez has ignited broader discussions about linguistic authenticity and cultural representation in media. Gomez’s dedication to the role has been widely applauded, with many seeing her efforts as a meaningful step toward bridging gaps between identity, artistry, and cultural pride.
Looking Ahead
Selena Gomez’s work in Emilia Pérez is more than a performance—it’s a testament to her commitment to growth and representation. By embracing challenges and addressing critiques with grace, she continues to pave the way for richer, more authentic storytelling within the Latino community. Fans can look forward to her future Spanish-language projects, which promise to further celebrate her heritage and expand her artistic repertoire.
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