Selena Gomez’s Spanish accent sparked criticism from Eugenio Derbez, but the real conversation is about why accents symbolize courage and cultural pride, not imperfection.
Eugenio Derbez is making headlines—and not in the best way. The Mexican actor and comedian recently made remarks about Selena Gomez’s performance in Emilia Pérez, notably criticizing her accent. As someone who has built a career in Hollywood while embracing his own accent, why is Derbez tearing down a fellow Mexican?
The Radical actor described Gomez’s performance as “indefensible” during a recent interview on Gaby Meza’s Hablando de Cine podcast. In the segment, Meza suggests that Gomez dramatizes her scenes because she doesn’t know Spanish, making her performances feel “uncomfortable.” She also critiques Gomez’s musical numbers, prompting Derbez to high-five her in agreement. Derbez then claims Gomez is receiving accolades overseas only because audiences there don’t realize how “bad” her Spanish is.
Gomez responded to the criticism with grace, saying:
“I understand where you are coming from. I’m sorry—I did the best I could with the time I was given. This doesn’t take away from how much work and heart I put into this movie.”
Shortly after, Spanish-Mexican pop star Belinda stepped in to show her support for Gomez. In a rare public statement, Belinda expressed her disappointment in Derbez’s remarks.
“I almost never give my opinion, I don’t talk about anything and much less about anyone, but I just saw this video, and I find it unfortunate that they speak with such coldness about the work and effort of a woman as talented and admirable as @selenagomez,” she wrote.
Belinda went on to praise Gomez’s dedication and urged for more empathy in public discourse, noting how comments like these can deeply hurt people. She concluded her message by calling Gomez a queen.
Needless to say, the remarks caused a stir online, leading Derbez to issue an apology on December 8. He wrote on TikTok:
“I truly apologize for my careless comments—they are indefensible and go against everything I stand for. As Latinos, we should always support one another. There’s no excuse. I was wrong and deeply admire your career and your kind heart.”
Derbez also noted that the movie should be celebrated for its achievements.
Why Selena Gomez’s Spanish Should Be Celebrated, Not Labeled ‘Indefensible’
While Derbez has retracted his words, this controversy opens up an important conversation: we need to celebrate Gomez’s courage in speaking Spanish on screen rather than diminish her efforts. For all we know, her performance could inspire younger generations to embrace their roots and learn the language.
An accent is not a flaw—it’s a sign of bravery. It reflects a willingness to speak a second language rather than staying silent out of fear of judgment. Sure, Gomez’s Spanish may not be perfect, but she’s representing her heritage on screen. Let’s not forget: her character in Emilia Pérez is a non-fluent Spanish-speaking American woman, making her portrayal authentic to the role.
Derbez’s criticism, labeling her scenes as “indefensible” (or in other words, “inexcusable”), perpetuates harmful attitudes that make it acceptable to bully or dismiss talent for not speaking a language fluently.
At the end of the day, having an accent doesn’t make someone less valid or authentic. This is something a Mexican actor like Derbez, who has navigated similar challenges in Hollywood, should understand better than anyone.
After Derbez’s Criticism, Selena Gomez Earns Golden Globe Nominations
The release of the Golden Globe nominations couldn’t have come at a better time for Selena Gomez, who excitedly received the news this morning that she was nominated in two categories: Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy TV Series for her role in Only Murders in the Building and Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for her performance in the musical Emilia Pérez.
The film, which premiered on Netflix, earned a total of 10 Golden Globe nominations, cementing its status as one of the most acclaimed movies of the year.
“I don’t even know what to write… I’m so proud of @zoesaldana, and I am so grateful and honored @goldenglobes,” the singer shared on Instagram.
She also took the opportunity to congratulate her co-star, Karla Sofía Gascón, with a heartfelt post celebrating her nomination in the “Best Actress” category.
These nominations are a clear sign that Selena Gomez is enjoying one of the most successful moments of her career, and no criticism can take that away from her.
