Selena Gomez, the multi-talented actress and singer, opened up about the weight of responsibility that comes with being the most-followed woman on Instagram.
Speaking at the Universal Music Group and Thrive Global's Music and Health Conference, Gomez expressed her gratitude for her 429 million Instagram followers while acknowledging the significance of the platform in her life.
Despite her immense following, Gomez revealed that she has never been driven by numbers but recognizes the influence and impact she has on her fans. She stated, "It can be a little heavy," referring to the emotional responsibility she feels towards her followers.
Gomez, 31, surpassed her close friend Taylor Swift, who boasts 272 million followers, and Kylie Jenner, the previous record holder with 399 million followers. The singer-actress-turned-philanthropist has used her platform to discuss crucial topics like mental health, particularly after releasing the documentary "My Mind and Me" on Apple TV.
In the documentary, Gomez candidly addresses her experiences dealing with childhood fame, her life-saving kidney transplant in 2017, and her high-profile break-up with Justin Bieber. Despite initial hesitations about sharing her personal struggles so publicly, Gomez found relief and empowerment in the release of the documentary, stating, "I felt like a huge weight was lifted."
Selena Gomez's authenticity and willingness to discuss challenging topics have resonated with her fans, many of whom have reached out to share their own struggles and stories. Gomez expressed her empathy and concern for those who look up to her, saying, "I feel for people, and I think that's what kind of keeps me in check."
While she embraces the responsibility of her massive following, Gomez also acknowledges the challenges it presents. She emphasized that her interactions and conversations with young people, women navigating divorces, or those undergoing chemotherapy are not just about her but about making a positive impact.
In an era where social media influencers often prioritize numbers over substance, Selena Gomez stands out as a role model who uses her platform to uplift and support her followers.
As she continues her journey of self-discovery and advocacy for mental health, Gomez remains dedicated to her fans and the enormous responsibility that comes with her status as Instagram's most-followed woman.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital presence, Gomez's words serve as a reminder that social media influence carries a profound weight, and it's a responsibility she doesn't take lightly.
