Selena Gomez Receives Apology from Eugenio Derbez for ‘Emilia Pérez’ Remarks
Mexican actor and comedian Eugenio Derbez has recently softened his critical remarks regarding Selena Gomez‘s role in the Netflix musical film Emilia Pérez. Initially, his comments sparked a significant amount of discussion and controversy, as many fans and critics weighed in on the impact of such statements on the artist’s career and public perception.
On the Hablando de Cine podcast, Derbez expressed his discontent with Gomez’s efforts in speaking Spanish for her character, labeling her performance as “indefensible.” This critique raised eyebrows, particularly among fans who felt that the actor’s comments were overly harsh and did not consider the challenges of performing in a second language.
Gomez portrays the character Jessi del Monte in the film, which is directed by Jacques Audiard. Although she attempts to deliver her lines in Spanish, it is important to note that she is not fluent in the language, which adds complexity to her performance and the authenticity of her character’s portrayal.
“Selena is indefensible,” Derbez stated during the podcast, a clip of which quickly gained traction on TikTok. He recounted watching the film with fellow viewers, who exchanged puzzled looks whenever Gomez appeared on screen, prompting them to question the quality of her performance. Such candid reflections can often lead to intense reactions from both fans and critics alike.
Derbez concurred with podcast host Gaby Meza, who noted that Gomez might have struggled to inject the necessary depth and nuance into her role, primarily due to her limited understanding of Spanish. This observation highlights the challenges faced by actors when portraying characters that require proficiency in a language they are not fluent in.
Responding to the backlash, Gomez took to the comments section of the TikTok post to express her feelings. “I understand where you are coming from. I’m sorry I did the best I could with the time I was given,” the Only Murders in the Building star articulated. She emphasized that her dedication and passion for the project should not be overlooked, despite the criticisms aimed at her performance.
In her response, the Grammy-nominated singer and actress also directly addressed Derbez’s remarks: “Also, do not ever say my fans are the problem standing up, as you say, for me.” This statement underscores her commitment to her supporters, reinforcing the importance of recognizing the role of fans in an artist’s journey.
Following the backlash, Derbez issued a heartfelt apology to Gomez in a letter shared on TikTok. “I truly apologize for my careless comments — they are indefensible and go against everything I stand for,” he expressed. He emphasized the need for unity among Latinos, stating, “There’s no excuse. I was wrong, and I deeply admire your career and your kind heart.” This public acknowledgment of his misstep illustrates the importance of accountability in the entertainment industry.
The film Emilia Pérez narrates the compelling story of cartel boss Manitas del Monte, played by Sofía Gascón, who decides to leave the criminal world behind to undergo gender reassignment surgery and embrace a new identity. The narrative is further enriched by a vibrant soundtrack featuring musical numbers that blend elements of rock, pop, and rap, all performed in Spanish, showcasing the transformative journey of its characters. The film also includes performances by Zoe Saldaña, adding further star power to this engaging story.