Selena Gomez Says She Was 'So Nervous' To Star In Emilia Perez, Her First Spanish Film

Selena Gomez’s first Spanish-speaking film, Emilia Perez, made its grand premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on Monday. The 32-year-old singer-actress made a stunning appearance at the event, looking gorgeous in a black sequined gown. Weeks after the first trailer came out, Selena has finally spoken about her role in the musical drama. She also revealed why the film remains very special to her.

During the Q&A session following the screening, Selena said, “It was actually really interesting because I ultimately ended up getting to develop a character who is very similar to myself.” The Only Murders in the Building star plays Jessi Del Monte, the onscreen wife of drug cartel leader Emilia Perez (Karla Sofia Gascon).

She also went on to speak about her personal connection to the role, owing to her Latin American roots. “And actually, I believe a lot of Latinx communities in America. I think it’s also everywhere. But I’m just really, really glad that we were able to make her Latin American because that’s who I am. I can understand when anyone has a conversation but do not ask me to answer. And I’m really grateful though that we were able to pull that off,” she said.

During the conversation, Selena also admitted to being nervous while working in the film, considering she never acted in Spanish.

The star was also seen heaping praise on her director Jacques Audiard, crediting him for the whole idea of the film. “And I think it’s really empowering and a unique story that hasn’t ever quite been told like this. So I’m really honored to be a part of something that’s making an impact already and hopefully will continue to do so,” she told Access Hollywood on the red carpet.

More About Emilia Perez

Directed by Audiard, the film also stars Zoe Saldana and Adriana Paz alongside Selena and Gascon. It tells the story of a cartel leader in Mexico who fakes her own death to live as her true self. Netflix released the film’s trailer on August 26, giving a glimpse into the tale of four women.

Emilia Perez also premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a rousing standing ovation along with the Best Actress Award.