Challenges in the Life of Selena Gomez in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Selena Gomez. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Selena Gomez is an American actress, singer-songwriter, businesswoman, and producer. She started her career as a child actress in 'Barney & Friends' before gaining widespread recognition for her role as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel's 'Wizards of Waverly Place.' Gomez signed with Hollywood Records in 2008 and formed the band Selena Gomez & the Scene, releasing three albums. She has since established herself as a prominent figure in both the music and acting industries.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

2012: Diagnosed with Lupus

Sometime between 2012 and early 2014, Selena Gomez was diagnosed with a form of lupus erythematosus.

2013: Canceled Concerts in Russia Amid LGBT Legislation Controversy

In 2013, Selena Gomez's scheduled concerts in Russia were canceled after authorities reportedly denied her visa request amid controversy surrounding the country's anti-LGBT legislation.

2014: Diagnosed with Lupus

Sometime between 2012 and early 2014, Selena Gomez was diagnosed with a form of lupus erythematosus.

August 2016: Canceled European and South American Dates of Revival Tour

In August 2016, Selena Gomez canceled the European and South American dates of her Revival Tour to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and depression caused by lupus.

2016: Collaboration on Charity Single "Hands" and Support for Lupus Research Alliance

In 2016, Selena Gomez collaborated with other artists on the charity single "Hands" to raise funds following the Pulse nightclub shooting and supported the Lupus Research Alliance, raising nearly US$500,000 for research through ticket sales from her Revival Tour and public donations.

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September 2017: Revealed kidney transplant

In September 2017, Selena Gomez revealed on Instagram that she had received a kidney transplant from actress and friend Francia Raisa due to complications from lupus.

2018: Psychosis Episode

In November 2022, Selena Gomez disclosed that she experienced an episode of psychosis in 2018.

April 2020: Revealed bipolar disorder diagnosis

In April 2020, Selena Gomez publicly revealed that she has bipolar disorder.

October 2022: Canceled appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon due to COVID-19

In October 2022, Selena Gomez canceled an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon after testing positive for COVID-19.

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November 2022: Revealed psychosis episode in 2018

In November 2022, Selena Gomez revealed that she had an episode of psychosis in 2018.

September 2024: Revealed inability to have children naturally

In September 2024, Selena Gomez revealed her inability to have children naturally due to her health issues, and mentioned wanting to explore either surrogacy or adoption in the future.

November 2024: Disclosed prior diagnosis of SIBO

In November 2024, Selena Gomez disclosed a prior diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

January 2025: Video Expressing Distress Over Increased Deportation Efforts

In January 2025, Selena Gomez posted and later deleted a video expressing distress over increased deportation efforts by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Trump administration. The post drew criticism, and the White House subsequently shared a response video defending the administration's immigration policies.