Top 20 Best Selena Gomez Movie & TV Performances

“Horton Hears a Who!” (2008)


This animated interpretation of Dr. Seuss’ Whoville is best known for starring Jim Carrey and Steve Carrell. But making her voice acting debut on film is none other than Selena Gomez. Gomez has lent her voice to some massively successful projects (more on that later), so not everyone remembers her smaller role in “Horton Hears a Who!” Admittedly, it’s easy to get lost in the mix when you’re voicing one of 96 daughters of the Mayor of Whoville! Still, it’s fun to check out her character, Helga, knowing the superstar the actress eventually became.

“Rudderless” (2014)


There’s nothing like a good indie movie to flex your acting muscles. Gomez showed hers with a strong supporting role in a story about grief. “Rudderless” follows Billy Crudup’s character, Sam, as he grapples with the death of his son, Josh. A misunderstanding leaves Sam presenting Josh’s music as his own. The actress appears as Josh’s love interest, portraying a young woman deeply affected by a soul-shattering loss. Known mainly for comedic work at the time, Gomez steals the scene with a marvelous against-type performance. Although with limited screen time, the actress makes each appearance count. With a blend of vulnerability, anger, and sorrow, Gomez’s character represents how sadness binds people together.

“The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” (2005-08)


Before landing her star-making role on “Wizards of Waverly Place,” Gomez appeared in Disney Channel’s other great successes. Her guest spot as Gwen in “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” cleverly mirrors William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” While putting the play together, Gwen’s affections switch from Cody to Zack. As you’d expect, hilarity ensues as characters quickly fall in and out of “love” with each other. Gomez shows why she’s such a natural for the screen, delivering a lighthearted and likable performance that stays true to Disney’s brand of humor. Looking back, it’s no wonder she was a leading star for the network by the following year.

“Hannah Montana” (2006-11)


Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez were arguably Disney Channel’s biggest names in the aughts. Of course, the latter appeared on “Hannah Montana” before reaching big-time fame, but it’s still cool to see these two stars share the screen. Although she didn’t do her own singing, Gomez’s natural charisma shines through regardless. Her character, Mikayla, is out to steal Hannah’s spotlight, and she isn’t shy about letting her know it. Mikayla also befriends Miley, unaware she and her rival are one and the same. Gomez taps into her cattiest side for this performance, with Mikayla antagonizing her rival at every turn. Fans later loved her wisecracking role as Alex on “Wizards of Waverly Place,” and Gomez provides a first glimpse here of what’s to come.

“Getaway” (2013)


Fans hoping to see Gomez in the action genre got their wish with this 2013 thriller. Starring alongside Ethan Hawke, Gomez showcases her adaptability onscreen. The high-stakes format of the film never lets up, shifting gears constantly as the protagonists race against time. Although “Getaway” was a critical flop, Gomez is committed in her role as “The Kid.” Solid chemistry with Hawke helps drive the film, keeping audiences hooked throughout the intense 90-minute runtime. As of 2024, the actress hasn’t dipped her toes back in the genre, making “Getaway” the best option for fans to see Gomez stretch far beyond her Disney roots.

“Barney & Friends” (1992-2010)


If you’re looking for the origins of Gomez’s celebrated career, look no further than a certain singing purple dinosaur. A show about educating young minds with good-natured vibes, Barney’s many songs have delighted children worldwide. Accompanying Barney are his young friends, which included a girl called Gianna back in the early-aughts. Played by Gomez, Gianna’s sequences range from learning new ideas to expressing her love for family and friends. Even at a young age, Gomez brims with an inherent charm and palpable self-confidence. It was an early sign of a star destined to shine bright, and Gomez’s early performances remain a nostalgic treat decades later. And yes, that is also Demi Lovato!

“Hotel Transylvania 2” (2015)


After playing Mavis as a rebellious “teenager” in the first “Hotel Transylvania,” Gomez takes the character through a mature avenue in the sequel. Now a wife and a mother, Mavis has to decide how to raise her half-human, half-vampire son. Gomez has a well-rounded interpretation of Mavis’ development, adding more depth while retaining the character’s comedic traits. In contrast with Adam Sandler’s slapstick Dracula, Gomez does a great job setting up a joke for the big punchline. In a cast filled with zany personalities, her role as the straight woman provides the perfect balance to keep the story’s emotional beats ringing true.

“A Rainy Day in New York” (2019)


Gomez is given a chance to really shine in this romantic comedy. Although she plays a supporting part in a stacked cast, her character, Chan, is one of its brightest spots. As the love interest of Timothée Chalamet’s Gatsby Welles, Chan represents the main protagonist’s hopes for renewed passion in life. Her presence signals a positive direction for the story each time she shows up. While Chan is designed to be likable, Gomez’s magnetic performance brings a deeper dimension to the role. Showing solidarity with sexual harassment victims, Gomez later donated her salary to the Time’s Up movement after allegations against director Woody Allen were raised.

“Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising” (2016)

After surviving a neighborhood fraternity in the first film, Mac and Kelly Radner are shocked to discover that a sorority has taken its place. The sorority in question springs up in spite of Phi Lambda, a pretentious and rule-filled group of girls led by Selena Gomez’s Madison. While she only has a brief role in the film, it’s a good one. As Phi Lambda President, she plays a straight-laced sorority leader who doesn’t believe in partying. Clad all in white, Gomez is the personification of purity, a brilliant contrast to the rambunctious and drug-fueled characters that round out the rest of the film.

“Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie” (2009)

Based on the popular television show, the film follows the magical Russo family as they vacation in the Caribbean. Reprising her role as Alex Russo, Gomez steps back into the character with ease. Aimed at the tween demographic, the film is filled with exactly the kind of gags and one-liners you’d expect. What separates this movie from others like it is the star power of a young Selena Gomez. The comedy-drama made it clear that the young actress was on the cusp of breaking out… and within a few short years, that’s exactly what she did.

“Monte Carlo” (2011)

After one of them is mistaken for royalty, a trio of women vacationing in Europe travel to Monte Carlo where they are tossed into a world of lavish parties, polo games, and romantic adventures. Gomez plays the woman mistaken for a British heiress, allowing her to flex her acting chops by playing two different characters. A lighthearted film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Gomez shines as per usual – creating a couple of characters that viewers can enjoy without much effort. A slightly formulaic movie, the beautiful scenery and fun loving plot are hard not to like!

“Ramona and Beezus” (2010)


When her family falls on hard times, Ramona, a young girl with an incredible imagination, tries her best to cope with the help of her big sister Beatrice. Gomez is cast as the older sibling and feels right at home in this genuine and heartfelt film. The movie garnered considerable praise from critics, who felt it exemplified the positive qualities of a fun-loving flick without succumbing to the pitfalls of others like it. While “Ramona and Beezus” is a G-rated comedy, it served as a turning point in Gomez’s acting career, propelling her from television to the big screen.

“Princess Protection Program” (2009)

After her country is invaded, a princess must pretend to be an average American teen in Louisiana. Starring alongside fellow Disney vet Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez plays Carter, daughter to a Princess Protection Agent and all-around tomboy. Gomez plays the more interesting of the two lead characters in this flick. As Carter, she must teach the relocated princess how to act like a regular American high school student. In doing so, Gomez is afforded multiple opportunities to show her comedic range. The film does a great job of giving its budding stars room to act, ultimately allowing Gomez and Lovato to demonstrate that they have what it takes to carry a teen genre film.

“Another Cinderella Story” (2008)

In this modern version of the classic folk tale, Gomez plays the Cinderella inspired lead character of Mary. Even though this film was a direct to DVD release, Gomez manages to make her star shine. Thin characters and cheesy dialogue aside, the film benefits from the young actress’ obvious talent as a singer and dancer. Films like this can be a dagger in the heart or a stepping-stone towards bigger and better things… Gomez managed to use it as the latter, propelling her to stardom only a few short years later.

“Hotel Transylvania” (2012)

After his wife dies, Count Dracula decides to open a hotel for monsters in Transylvania. Gomez plays the vampire’s “teenage” daughter, Mavis. As her father attempts to shield her from the outside world, the young vamp can’t help but wonder what lies beyond the walls of the hotel. Gomez does an excellent job of matching the silliness and gag-a-minute nature of the film. Then again, it should hardly come as a surprise that the pop star feels comfortable behind a microphone. While the film is definitely aimed at a younger demographic, Gomez does her best to work with what she’s given.

“Spring Breakers” (2012)

When four girls head to St. Petersburg, Florida for spring break, they soon find themselves caught up in the dangerous lifestyle of an eccentric gangster. Touted as the film that would shed her good-girl image, Gomez still manages to be the most wholesome character in the black comedy. That being said, she pulls it off with ease. As Faith, she watches as her friends delve deeper into the sex, drugs, and violence that characterize their new environment. Gomez does an excellent job of playing the reluctant observer, proving that she may not be bad to the bone, but definitely capable of handling more serious film roles.

“The Fundamentals of Caring” (2016)

In search of a job that will help him cope with a recent loss, Ben becomes a caregiver to Trevor, a young man with muscular dystrophy. The two embark on a road trip that sees them pick up a hitchhiker named Dot, played by Selena Gomez. It’s a funny and heartfelt film that benefits from a strong showing from all its cast members, with Gomez doing a fantastic job as the love interest to the morose Trevor. To be honest, it would be a tall task for anyone not to fall in love with Gomez’s Dot, as the actress is as cute as ever in this quirky comedy.

“Only Murders in the Building” (2021-)

After numerous commercial successes, “Only Murders in the Building” marked Selena Gomez’s greatest critical achievement yet. Earning Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, Gomez brings her absolute best as Mabel Mora. Along with Martin Short and Steve Martin’s characters, Mabel finds herself at the center of several murder mysteries. Serving as the wild card in the cast, this protagonist has much more to hide than she lets on. Gomez’s dynamic performance adds layers to Mabel’s characterization, portraying a wide range of emotions with pitch-perfect accuracy. The show benefits from wonderful storytelling and Gomez’s evolution as a performer, as Mabel’s character stays fresh and interesting with each season’s overarching mystery.

“Emilia Pérez” (2024)

Singing is among Gomez’s most recognizable skills, but she reaches a new level for this musical crime comedy. If you didn’t know it before, you’ll know now that our girl can really belt a tune. The story follows a former cartel leader after transitioning to become the titular character. Gomez plays the protagonist’s wife, Jessi Del Monte. While the framing device has us sympathizing with Emilia, Jessi’s arc draws us in, too. Despite its darkly comedic style, “Emilia Pérez” is a heart-touching tale of self-acceptance and living with the weight of our choices. Jessi serves as a poignant reminder to Emilia of what she’s had to give up to live her truth, leading into the film’s themes of self-worth and loss.

“Wizards of Waverly Place” (2007-12)


Yes, the character appears again on our list – but for good reason. Selena’s performance as Alex Russo on the hit Disney Channel show, “Wizards of Waverly Place” is that one role that helped the actress get her foot in the door and make a name for herself in the entertainment business. The show picked up multiple Primetime Emmys for Outstanding Children’s Program and much of its success was due to the fact that there was a future Hollywood star in the cast. As Russo, Gomez was able to showcase her tremendous talent and keen ability to win over viewers. While clearly meant for young teens, the sitcom was one of Disney Channel’s most successful during its multiple-year run.


Which performance makes you a hardcore Selenator? Let us know in the comments.