Selena Gomez is a multi-talented figure in the entertainment industry known for her acting, singing, and most recently, her entrepreneurial ventures. Rising to fame on the Disney Channel series “Wizards of Waverly Place,” Gomez has since evolved into a globally recognized pop artist and influential personality. Despite her high-profile status, there are numerous aspects of her life and career that may not be common knowledge to even her most ardent fans. From her deep respect for her namesake to her dedication towards philanthropic causes, Gomez’s life is as fascinating off-stage as it is on. Let’s delve into ten things you didn’t know about Selena Gomez.

1. Her Namesake is a Famous Singer

Selena Gomez was named after the renowned Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. Quintanilla-Pérez, known as the “Queen of Tejano music,” was a significant influence within the Latino community and had a successful career before her untimely death in 1995.

Gomez has spoken about the impact of her namesake on her own career. She admires Quintanilla-Pérez’s talent and grace and strives to emulate her in her personal life and music career. This connection to Quintanilla-Pérez is an essential part of Gomez’s identity as a Latina artist in the entertainment industry.

2. She Wore a Purity Ring

Gomez wore a purity ring during her early years in the spotlight. The ring, which symbolizes a pledge to remain a virgin until marriage, was a significant part of her image at the start of her career.

Although she eventually stopped wearing the ring, Gomez has spoken about the personal growth and maturity that led to her decision. She continues to emphasize the importance of individual values and making choices based on personal beliefs rather than societal expectations.

3. She was a UNICEF Ambassador

At the age of 17, Gomez became the youngest UNICEF ambassador at the time. She used her platform to advocate for the rights and well-being of children worldwide, participating in numerous campaigns and field missions.

Gomez’s work with UNICEF showcases her dedication to using her influence for good. Her commitment to humanitarian efforts underscores her character and willingness to contribute to causes greater than herself.

4. She’s a Huge ‘Friends’ Fan

Gomez is a massive fan of the iconic television show “Friends.” She’s often spoken about her love for the series, and she even had the chance to meet Jennifer Aniston, who played Rachel Green, on a talk show.

Her love for “Friends” gives a glimpse into her off-screen life and personal interests. It’s a fun fact that helps fans connect with her on a more personal level, knowing they share a mutual love for this beloved sitcom.

5. She Had a Kidney Transplant

In 2017, Gomez underwent a kidney transplant due to complications from lupus, an autoimmune disease she was diagnosed with in 2013. Her friend and fellow actress Francia Raisa donated a kidney for the transplant.

Gomez’s openness about her health struggles has brought awareness to lupus and the importance of organ donation. It also showcases her resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring many of her fans who may be dealing with similar health issues.

6. She was Home-schooled

Like many child stars, Gomez was homeschooled. She earned her high school diploma through homeschooling in 2010. This arrangement allowed her to focus on her acting and music career from a young age while still getting an education.

Being homeschooled gave Gomez the flexibility to pursue her professional endeavors while also receiving an education. This experience likely contributed to her mature approach to her career and her ability to balance multiple projects at a young age.

7. She Started Acting at a Very Young Age

Gomez began her acting career at the tender age of seven when she was cast in the children’s TV series “Barney & Friends.” She appeared on the show for two seasons, sharing the screen with future pop star Demi Lovato.

Her early start in the entertainment industry paved the way for her successful acting career. It gave her the chance to hone her skills and gain experience from a young age, setting the foundation for her later roles in film and television.

8. She Has a High-profile Group of Friends

Gomez is part of a high-profile group of friends known as the “Squad,” which includes fellow pop star Taylor Swift and models like Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss. The group is often seen hanging out together at award shows and on social media.

Gomez’s friendships with other women in the industry speak to her supportive and collaborative nature. They also offer fans a glimpse into her personal life and the relationships that matter most to her.

9. She’s the Owner of a Makeup Brand

Gomez launched her makeup brand, Rare Beauty, in 2020. The brand, which aims to break down unrealistic standards of beauty, offers a wide range of products that cater to all skin types and tones.

Rare Beauty demonstrates Gomez’s entrepreneurial spirit and her commitment to promoting self-acceptance and inclusivity. It’s another example of how she uses her platform to make a positive impact.

10. She Holds a Guinness World Record

In 2016, Gomez earned a spot in the Guinness World Records for being the most-followed individual on Instagram. At the time, she had over 112 million followers, a number that has since grown significantly.

Her record highlights Gomez’s immense popularity and influence on social media. It also reflects her ability to connect with fans on a personal level, something she’s known for throughout her career.