Selena Marie Gomez is an American singer, songwriter, actress, producer, and businesswoman. She began her career as a child actress, starring on the children's television series
Barney & Friends (2002â2004). Gomez rose to prominence and emerged as a teen idol, for her leading role as Alex Russo on the Disney Channel sitcom
Wizards of Waverly Place (2007â2012). She signed with Hollywood Records in 2008. As the lead vocalist, she formed the pop rock band Selena Gomez & the Scene, and released three studio albums from 2009 to 2011; each of the band's releases have been certified gold or higher by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).