

Jay Shetty & Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco ON Their Love Story
In this On Purpose episode, Jay Shetty invited the two artists to exclusively share their love story, from their serendipitous first meeting until the deep, unbreakable connection they enjoy today. Blanco and Gomez reveal the highs and lows of their love journey, from genuine moments to the strong bond they share today.
Are you curious to learn how Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's love story began and unfolded?
In this On Purpose episode, Jay Shetty invited the two artists to exclusively share their love story, from their serendipitous first meeting until the deep, unbreakable connection they enjoy today. Blanco and Gomez reveal the highs and lows of their love journey, from genuine moments to the strong bond they share today.
The Unexpected First Encounter
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco first met after Gomez's mother had arranged a session for her teen daughter. However, neither of the two has clear memories of this first encounter. Years later, they met again to record a video shoot, but the meeting was strictly professional. Blanco was intrigued by Gomez's flair, saying how deep and fascinating she seemed to him. Yet he was unsure if the feeling was mutual.
Selena Gomez explained to Jay Shetty that she preferred keeping her recording sessions private, allowing only her trusted engineer in the booth with her. But once, Benny Blanco dropped by to oversee the recording, which intimidated Gomez; nevertheless, she remained friendly, yet distant. She admits she didn't fully appreciate Blanco's potential warmth or compatibility at the time. So, rather than forming an immediate bond, they parted ways amicably, unaware of the future ahead.
From Professional Acquaintances to Friendship
When Blanco and Gomez met again, they also had the chance to talk on a one-on-one basis. This is how he offered to introduce her to some of his single friends, never imagining that she would be interested in him instead. He told Jay Shetty that they continued talking and chatting and that Selena Gomez sent him "silly selfies", which was intriguing. The artist admits it was her way of playful flirting, although she wasn't sure where it might lead.
These simple and apparently small gestures of openness paved the way to an unexpectedly close bond. Gomez explains to Jay Shetty how she slowly lowered her defensive walls because Benny Blanco didn't seem interested in her and simply wanted her to join his circle of friends. However, their texts turned into friendly teasing and, before they knew it, feelings started to emerge. Blanco feared that Gomez might not like him because she was very reserved, but it turned out that their differences in personality were, in fact, complementary. The producer admitted to Jay Shetty that Gomez caught him off guard in ways he had never experienced with an artist of her prominence, making him curious to get to know her better on a personal level.
Early Romance and Mixed Signals
The couple shared with Jay Shetty a series of amusing misunderstandings that led to their relationship. They went out for dinner, and Gomez believed it was a date, yet Blanco assumed it was a platonic gathering. It took them some time to figure out their feelings for each other, which emerged slowly but purely organically.
After another party, Gomez left early, but soon after, she texted Blanco to let him know how much she had enjoyed his company. It was then that they both understood that their friendship meant more to them - the singer confessed she felt really nervous, which was out of character for her. Similarly, Blanco realized he wanted Gomez in his life on a deeper, more meaningful level.
Building Trust and Overcoming Baggage
Selena Gomez discussed her protective walls with Jay Shetty, which she had built because all aspects of her public life had been thoroughly scrutinized in the past. She took extra care to shield her feelings and didn't want to let her feelings shine through easily. Yet, she soon felt safe around Blanco because of their consistent communication, especially when they spent time apart due to work commitments.
Blanco and Gomez were always honest with each other and informed each other of their plans when they were separated. This constant stream of information was a relief for the singer, who felt reassured even when she was far away from her boyfriend. The couple told Jay Shetty that their relationship has deep roots in honesty, open communication, and minimal ego on both sides. They feel safe and connected on a deeper level.
Embracing Vulnerability
Selena Gomez opened up to Jay Shetty about the constant stream of criticism regarding her appearance, cultural background, or relationships, and how it can easily become overwhelming. She sometimes had to take breaks from social media to mitigate its impact on her mental health. Conversely, Benny Blanco doesn't let social media affect him much because he refuses to read the online comments.
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco emphasize the importance of their mutual honesty and kindness in their relationship. The producer's affectionate words towards the singer sometimes leave her speechless, since she is not used to receiving positivity without a hidden agenda. In a world where kindness is often labelled as fake, Blanco and Gomez are committed to promoting the importance of looking after each other's well-being, even if it means retiring from social media for certain periods of time.
A Joint Path Toward Personal Growth
Benny Blanco explained how each person's individual past (family history, previous relationship, and professional experiences) forms a puzzle that makes up who you are, a unique human. So, being in a relationship with someone means accepting their entire history. Gomez agrees, also pointing out the growth that arises from being transparent with one another and trying to find common ground on various topics.
The couple revealed to Jay Shetty how they prevent arguments from becoming too heated. Gomez and Blanco focus on constructive dialogue rather than raising their voices: if she expresses her need to take a break, he would allow her the time to cool off. Similarly, Blanco also feels comfortable expressing his thoughts without allowing the conversation to escalate into hostility. The couple admits to not being perfect, but they are trying to handle disagreements with maturity and empathy, preserving a safe environment for each other.
The Proposal
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco shared with Jay Shetty how the proposal went. While the singer prefers to keep some details private, they shared how Blanco let Gomez believe she was expected to arrive at a work event. There, she was greeted by a staged, yet intimate scene prepared by the producer. She was in shock, as she was not expecting a proposal that day.
Blanco shares his side of the story - he was only struck by nerves at the last moment. During the entire day, he had been casually going about his business, finalizing music masters, until it finally dawned on him what he was about to do. He found himself stumbling upon the carefully chosen words he had rehearsed. Yet, when he went down on one knee, he was overcome with joy. Gomez admits it was an unforgettable moment, and the best day of her life.
Shared Projects
Gomez and Blanco joined forces on a professional level, too. They shared with Jay Shetty details about their latest album, which is a collaboration born from a sense of comfort they had never felt in previous sessions. The singer explains that a large portion of it reflects past experiences, capturing more than the bliss of their current relationship. To Blanco, the creative process felt nearly therapeutic, capturing Gomez's comments or dreams and transforming them into lyrical concepts.
They emphasized the exceptional honesty they infused into these sessions. They recorded many of the tracks at home, in a warm and safe environment, which reflected in their music. By being so vulnerable in her music, Gomez revisited both her highlights and struggles. The couple believes they have created a time capsule to share with friends, family, and any future children as a representation of their journey together.
Moreover, they had several collaborators, including Gracie Abrams; by incorporating Abrams' sincere writing style, Blanco and Gomez aim to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide, regardless of their backgrounds.
A Look to the Future
Selena Gomez brought up the possibility of forming a family in the near future. She has a close bond with her younger sister and admitted to loving children. Benny Blanco, on the other hand, used to be quite neutral about the topic of family, but he is now equally excited and eager to start this new chapter in his life.
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco base their relationships (personal and professional) on mutual support. They explained to Jay Shetty how they try to stay grounded in honesty and empathy, and that they are always open to learning from their mistakes. The artists consider that building a life together consists of understanding, compromise, and everyday acts of kindness.
More From Jay Shetty
Listen to the entire On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast episode “Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco EXCLUSIVE: Their Love Story Like You’ve Never Heard Before” now in the iTunes store or on Spotify. For more inspirational stories and messages like this, check out Jay’s website at jayshetty.me.


Looking for greater meaning? This quiz shows you how to live with purpose every day.
Take the Quiz
Dreaming of becoming a life coach? This quiz tells you if a coaching career is right for you.
Take the Quiz
Dreaming of becoming a life coach? This quiz tells you if a coaching career is right for you.
Take the Quiz
Everyone communicates differently. Discover your own personal fight style now.
Take the Quiz
Understanding your role in a relationship is the first step to making things work.
Take the Quiz