From Inside Out to its sequel, Selena Gomez opens up about the films that moved her to tears and why she can’t wait to share them with her children
Selena Gomez has never been shy when it comes to sharing her emotions with the world, but her latest revelation caught fans off guard in the sweetest way. In a candid chat on the podcast “Good Hang with Amy Poehler,” the singer and actress opened up about the two movies that made her cry so hard she now considers them essential viewing for her future children. At 33, the star radiated both nostalgia and anticipation when she admitted, “They don’t exist yet, but I can’t wait,” flashing a smile that gave away just how excited she is for the chapter of motherhood she’s been dreaming of.
The conversation flowed naturally when Selena started talking about her younger sister, Gracie, who is now 12. She described that delicate stage of life as a time when kids begin to feel self-conscious, second-guess themselves, and try to figure out who they are through their emotions. That moment instantly connected her to one of Pixar’s most beloved films, Inside Out, where Amy Poehler voices the character Joy. Selena revealed that she first watched the animated hit with her little sister, and the experience left her in tears. “I watched it with my sister, and I completely sobbed. It is so factual,” she confessed, calling it a movie that should honestly be mandatory for kids in school. For Gomez, the film wasn’t just a story — it was a mirror reflecting the growing pains and emotional rollercoaster of being human.
Inside Out, which premiered in 2015, tells the touching story of Riley, an 11-year-old girl who relocates to San Francisco and struggles to adapt to her new life with the help (and chaos) of her emotions — Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. Pixar turned something as complex as psychology into a colorful, moving adventure that resonates with both kids and adults. Selena, who has long spoken openly about her passion for mental health awareness, found herself completely moved by the truth packed into this animated gem. “I almost feel like it should have been a requirement in school to watch that as a homework assignment,” she added, emphasizing how deeply the film impacted her. “I’m so fascinated with the human mind, and it would break my heart.”
Things got even more emotional when she mentioned the sequel, Inside Out 2, which premiered in 2024. Amy Poehler explained that the second film introduces Anxiety as a brand-new emotion, highlighting how worry and overthinking are universal experiences that everyone goes through. Selena couldn’t agree more. For her, seeing Anxiety brought to life on the big screen felt like a crucial step in normalizing feelings people often hide or ignore. She praised Pixar for daring to show something so real and relatable. For Gomez, the Inside Out franchise is more than just animated storytelling — it’s an honest reflection of everyday life, offering both comfort and understanding.
Selena’s confession that she wants her children to watch these movies one day carried even more weight given her long-expressed dream of becoming a mother. In March 2025, during an appearance on the Jay Shetty Podcast, she made it clear how deeply she values the joy of children: “I love children. I love making them laugh; they’re just so sweet. So absolutely, when that day comes, I’m so excited for it.” Her love for kids and her openness about motherhood have made fans root for her even more, seeing this softer, more nurturing side of the superstar. The idea that she already has a movie playlist ready for her future little ones makes the dream feel even closer.
And while Selena’s professional career continues to thrive, her personal life seems equally filled with love and promise. In December 2024, she confirmed her engagement to music producer Benny Blanco, a man she first met back in 2019 while working together on the track “I Can’t Get Enough.” Over the years, what began as creative collaboration turned into a love story that’s now heading toward the altar. The couple has been delighting fans with glimpses into their relationship, often sharing cozy moments on social media — from carefree lake trips to candid snaps from bachelorette parties. Their photos radiate joy, intimacy, and the kind of everyday romance that makes their fans swoon. For Gomez, this season of love and laughter seems to be preparing the perfect backdrop for a future family.
Even though her love life is flourishing, Selena hasn’t slowed down her professional momentum. She remains one of the most influential figures in entertainment, balancing her music career with acting projects. Her hit Hulu series, Only Murders in the Building, where she stars alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short, continues to capture audiences and critics alike. On top of that, her advocacy for mental health through her Rare Impact Fund has cemented her reputation as more than just an entertainer — she’s an activist, a role model, and a woman using her platform to push for change in areas that matter. This blend of vulnerability, talent, and social commitment keeps Selena at the heart of pop culture, making every word she says resonate with fans.
That’s why her reflections on Inside Out feel so significant. For Gomez, Pixar’s animated films are more than just cute, family-friendly entertainment. They are teaching tools, conversation starters, and gentle guides for understanding emotions that people of all ages experience. Her belief that children should grow up with these stories shows how she envisions motherhood: not just as a personal dream but as a chance to raise emotionally intelligent, empathetic kids who can navigate life’s ups and downs with grace. Inside Out and Inside Out 2, in her eyes, are not just movies. They are life lessons wrapped in color, humor, and heart.
Fans were especially touched by her playful comment that she “can’t wait” to show her kids these films. For someone who has battled personal struggles so openly — from health issues to the pressures of fame — it was a heartwarming glimpse into how much hope she carries for the future. Selena has always been celebrated for her honesty, but this revelation painted her in an even softer, more relatable light. It’s not about red carpets or record sales; it’s about family, connection, and the little moments that make life meaningful.
In a way, Selena’s relationship with Inside Out reflects her entire journey as an artist and a woman. Just as the films turn complicated emotions into something beautifully human, Gomez has consistently turned her personal struggles into art, conversation, and inspiration. She shows that it’s okay to cry, to feel deeply, and to admit that emotions are not weaknesses but strengths. By planning to share these films with her children someday, she’s ensuring that the next generation carries forward this message of emotional honesty.
For now, fans can only imagine the day when Selena will be sitting on a couch with her kids, watching Riley, Joy, Sadness, and now Anxiety navigate the world of feelings. Until then, her story is a reminder that even global superstars long for the same simple joys as everyone else: love, family, and the magic of a movie night that brings both tears and comfort. And if we’ve learned anything from Selena Gomez, it’s that sometimes the smallest confessions — like the movies you want to share with your future children — reveal the biggest truths about who you are and what you value most.
