Selena Gomez Reveals Rare Insight Into Her Breakup With Justin Bieber
Between 2010 and 2018, Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber had a tumultuous on-and-off romance.
Selena Gomez has always been open about her emotional journey—whether in her music, documentaries, or interviews—and lately, she’s been sharing more about what life looks like now that she’s in a stable, loving relationship. This contrasts with her past, and she’s not shy about acknowledging how far she’s come.
The 31-year-old singer and actress is currently engaged to music producer Benny Blanco. The two recently released a joint album, I Said I Love You First, which draws directly from their relationship and reflects their bond through lyrics and melody.
However, their story didn’t start with a whirlwind romance; it began as a long-standing friendship and professional collaboration. They had worked together on music long before anything romantic developed between them.
Their relationship began in 2023, but the foundation had been laid years prior. As Selena explained in a recent episode of the Table Manners podcast with Jessie and Lennie Ware, it wasn’t love at first sight, but it was something different when it finally happened.
“I hadn’t liked anyone in a very long time,” she admitted, recalling the first kiss they shared. “Some kisses are for fun, and then when you feel something behind a kiss, it’s completely different. I’d been alone for about five years, with the exception of a few bad dates here and there, but I never felt that way. I was a little embarrassed.”
Selena Gomez opened up about her past relationship.
Before Benny, Selena’s most public relationship was with Justin Bieber, a romance that dominated headlines for years. The two were on and off from 2010 to 2018, with brief reconciliations and long silences.
Not long after their final breakup in March 2018, Bieber proposed to Hailey Baldwin, and the two have since married and welcomed their first child, Jack.
InstagramLooking back on that chapter, Selena addressed its emotional weight in her 2022 Apple TV+ documentary My Mind & Me.
“I felt haunted by a past relationship that no one wanted to let go of. But then I just moved past it. I wasn’t afraid anymore,” she shared.That sense of closure has made space for something healthier, and it shows in how she talks about her current relationship. Gomez and Blanco announced their engagement in December 2024, and since then, fans have been eager to hear more about the upcoming wedding.
While the couple hasn’t shared every detail, they’ve been honest about one thing: they’re skipping the traditional “first dance.” During the Table Manners episode, Selena laughed as she explained:
Navigating Emotional Recovery
Dr. Ian Kerner, a renowned sex therapist, highlights the importance of emotional recovery after a breakup. In his experience, individuals often struggle with self-identity and emotional resilience following a tumultuous relationship.
He suggests engaging in self-reflection and building a support network as fundamental steps to healing. This process can include journaling about one's feelings, establishing boundaries with ex-partners, and practicing self-care. These methods not only foster emotional growth but also enhance future relationship prospects.
Selena Gomez is engaged to Benny Blanco.
Instead of a choreographed couple’s dance, Selena is planning something a little more personal. She revealed she’ll have a special moment on the dance floor with her grandfather—her mom’s father. It’s not just sentimental; it’s deeply symbolic.
“He never got a chance to walk my mum down the aisle,” Selena said. “Because, good for my mum, she decided to go to Vegas and be like, ‘Whoo,’ and she’s still been with [my father] ever since they were like 26.”“So it’s very cute that they did that,” she added, “but I wanted to give [my grandfather] the opportunity to have that.”It’s a simple, meaningful gesture that shows where Selena’s head and heart are these days. Rather than follow what’s expected, she’s focused on what feels right to her and the people she loves.
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Selena’s new chapter is centered around embracing calm, finding closure with what’s behind her, savoring the present, and anticipating what’s to come without distraction. There’s no sensational drama or public sparring to follow, no viral headlines dissecting every gesture.
Instead, two people allowed love to grow organically, taking their time to truly understand each other and crafting a future that reflects their shared values and quiet joy.
From a psychological perspective, healing from a breakup is a complex journey. Dr. Brené Brown, a leading vulnerability researcher, emphasizes the significance of embracing vulnerability as a strength. In her work, she suggests that allowing oneself to feel the weight of heartbreak can lead to deeper emotional connections in the future.
She advises individuals to practice self-compassion and to acknowledge their feelings without judgment. This approach fosters resilience and encourages personal growth, which can ultimately enrich future relationships.
Practical Steps for Healing
In navigating the complexities of relationships, expert insights emphasize the necessity of self-awareness and emotional resilience. Experts like Dr. Ian Kerner and Dr. Brené Brown provide invaluable guidance on healing and personal growth after a breakup. By employing strategies such as self-reflection, establishing boundaries, and embracing vulnerability, individuals can foster healthier connections in the future.
Ultimately, understanding one's emotional landscape and practicing self-compassion are essential steps toward recovery, helping to transform past experiences into opportunities for growth and stronger future relationships.
