noemi gonzalez

Set to star in the highly anticipated Selena: The Series, Noemi Gonzalez talked to us about what’s to come, filming during COVID, and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES photo by VINCE TRUPSIN

Let’s talk Selena: The Series! Take us back

to the moment where you learned you’d be apart of the cast – what was running through your mind?

It was one of the most profound moments of my life. I was stunned when I got the call from my manager and agent that I had the family’s approval. That whole day, I was so excited and humbled! I just celebrated with loved ones while thinking of Selena, Suzette, Abraham, and the drums. It was so much all at once and I took it all in because getting this role was so personal for me. I have always been a major Selena fan and I wanted to be part of telling her incredible story.

What did you do to prepare for taking on the role of Suzette Quintanilla?

I learned the drums- that really took a lot out preparation and it thoroughly shaped the character. I studied archives of Suzette and Selena y Los Dinos, both in interviews and in performances. I studied Selena as well to have the Quintanilla essence, I changed my overall appearance and cut and permed my long hair. I listened to her voice and watched her body language with dialect coach Esther Caporale that production so graciously provided. Lastly, I channeled any pressure of her being one of our EP’s into the drums and into the character to absolutely give it my all.

Are there any memorable behind-thescenes moments while filming that you can share with us?

I remember a special magic in the air the day that we were filming Como la Flor. There was this excitement, this hype, this energy that was so inspirational and so Selena. Now specifically, I’ll never forget when they filmed my coverage of me drumming to the six and half minute live variation of the song. I had only started to learn the drums 2 and a half months beforehand. But, I remember feeling incredibly connected to the sibling bond that is Selena, Suzette, and A.B. I was connected to her music and the camera that I could feel every person in that sound stage and beyond. When I was done, I couldn’t sit still and I had to come out of the cage of the drum kit. I remember how me and our director and EP Hiromi Kamala hugged afterwards. For the rest of the day, people were coming up to me telling me that they had tears in their eyes watching, telling me that everyone was surrounding the monitors. It felt like a very special moment with the cast and crew that can never be relived again and it will stay with me forever.

How would you describe the vibe on the

Selena set? FAMILIA. Fun. Focused. Naturally, with such a beautiful story as Selena’s, we were all connected to her inspirational essence. We filmed in Baja Studios with an incredible Mexican crew from both Tijuana and Mexico City. So, naturally, the magic of set was unique and dare I say better than any other set. It was an incredible time working together on this series.

What are you most excited for fans to see/ learn from this series? What is your favorite Selena song?

My absolute favorite song of Selena’s has to be No Me Queda Mas. It’s poetry, musical elements, and Selena’s emotional, powerful delivery make this a classic for all time. I am most excited for fans to see the beginning of Selena’s story. We all love Selena’s signature look and time in the 90s, but I want to know how she got there, I hope you all enjoy watching her coming of age star story.

When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

I think of being a part of a dynamic, commanding period piece. I want to take you back in time or bring you into a whole different world. I want to play a strong female. I want more stages, and performances: I want to sing in a role. I want to act in different languages. I want many ultimate dreams to come true.

What would you say has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

How to be a light when the going gets rough. We have all experienced a wild year through COVID and it has been challenging to say the least. Specifically, the production of Selena: The Series was shut down when the global pandemic hit the west coast of North America. We came back to film after a 5 month break with very rigid COVID restrictions. The stress was overwhelming sometimes, especially with everyone being away from our loved ones on location. But instead of getting down, I knew I had to contribute to any good, fun, loving vibes I could give. I took a lot of care of my Suzette Squad- the crew members that became assigned to me because of COVID protocols. Now instead of the bummer vibes, we have a bond and beautiful fun memories of accomplishing Selena: The Series together and against all the odds!

With a growing social following, what’s the best way for people to grab your attention online?

I am very active on Instagram! Come say hi, follow and participate at @iamnoemigonzalez!

Any special message for fans?

Embrace who you are. Let the world see you. Just be, and remember that although you might be in your head or second-guessing yourself, try to be kind to yourself because you never know who you are inspiring.