From Cannes to Emmys: Selena Gomez Earns Her First Acting Nomination

Updated On: July 25, 2024 5:54 am

Selena Gomez’s impressive acting career has reached new heights with her first Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in “Only Murders in the Building.” This comes on the heels of her historic Cannes Film Festival Best Actress award, solidifying her status as a multi-talented force in the entertainment industry.

Groundbreaking Cannes Victory

In a career-defining moment, Selena Gomez made history at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Alongside her co-stars Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Adriana Paz, Gomez was awarded the prestigious Best Actress prize for her powerful performance in the film “Emilia Pérez.”

Directed by acclaimed French filmmaker Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez” is a musical crime drama that tells the story of a powerful cartel leader who seeks to transition and start a new life as a woman. Gomez’s portrayal of the complex and nuanced character was widely praised, with the film receiving a 10-minute standing ovation following its Cannes premiere.

In a touching moment, Gascón, who made history as the first transgender actor to win a major award at Cannes, accepted the award on behalf of the group. “This award is not just for me. It’s for all people who are fighting for themselves and their rights,” Gascón said, reflecting on the significance of the honor.

Gomez, who was in New York City during the awards ceremony, was overjoyed to receive the news. “I’m so excited,” she told her castmate Zoe Saldaña in a video posted on her Instagram Stories. The Cannes jury president, acclaimed director Greta Gerwig, praised the decision to honor all four leading ladies, stating that singling out one winner would have “undermined the magic that they created together.”

Emmy Nomination for “Only Murders in the Building”

Riding the wave of her Cannes triumph, Selena Gomez has now secured her first-ever Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Mabel Mora in the hit Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building.”

Gomez’s nomination marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the fourth Latina actress to be recognized in this category, following in the footsteps of legendary performers such as Rita Moreno, America Ferrera, and Jenna Ortega. Among them, Ferrera stands as the sole Latina winner in this prestigious category.

Beyond her individual acting accolade, Gomez has also cemented her place in Emmy history as the most-nominated Latina producer, with her third consecutive nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series for “Only Murders in the Building.” This achievement places her ahead of other trailblazing Latina producers, such as Marta Kauffman for “Friends” and Gina Rodriguez for “Jane the Virgin.”

Embracing Her Latina Identity

Selena Gomez’s rise to the top of the entertainment industry is a testament to her unwavering talent and her proud embrace of her Latina heritage. Born to a Mexican-American father and an Italian-American mother, Gomez has always been vocal about her cultural roots and the importance of representation in the media.

In an interview with Variety, Gomez expressed her excitement and pride at the significance of her Emmy nominations, particularly as a Latina. “I didn’t even realize that, so these little pieces of information keep me motivated. They make me feel proud. I have always been proud of my family, heritage and culture, but I need to pause more often and acknowledge how significant this is,” she remarked.

Gomez’s presence in the industry has undoubtedly paved the way for greater Latina representation, and her success serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and producers from diverse backgrounds. As the most-nominated Latina producer in Emmy history, Gomez’s achievements are a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and embracing one’s cultural identity.

“Only Murders in the Building” and the Road Ahead

Gomez’s Emmy recognition comes at a pivotal moment in her career, as she continues to captivate audiences with her performance in the critically acclaimed “Only Murders in the Building.” The show, which also stars comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short, has become a beloved hit, earning multiple Emmy nominations and cementing Gomez’s status as a versatile and compelling actress.

The upcoming fourth season of the series promises to delve deeper into the lives of the trio of true-crime enthusiasts, Charles, Oliver, and Mabel, as they confront the shocking circumstances surrounding the demise of Charles’ stunt double and close friend, Sazz Pataki. Additionally, the season will explore the discovery that a Hollywood studio intends to adapt their popular podcast into a film, adding a new layer of intrigue and excitement to the show’s narrative.

As Gomez continues to captivate audiences with her multifaceted talents, her Emmy nomination and Cannes Film Festival award serve as a powerful reminder of her remarkable journey and the impact she is making in the entertainment industry. With her unwavering dedication, her commitment to her craft, and her proud embrace of her Latina identity, Selena Gomez is poised to reach even greater heights in the years to come.