Selena Gomez, beloved pop icon and actress, is once again winning hearts—this time, not with a chart-topping single or red carpet appearance, but by baring her soul about an intimate moment with her fiancé, music producer Benny Blanco. In a candid and deeply personal conversation on the podcast Table Manners with Jessie and Lennie Ware, Gomez and Blanco gave fans an inside look into their relationship—particularly their sweet yet hilariously awkward first kiss.
The Table Manners Podcast: Where the Story Unfolded
Jessie and Lennie Ware’s popular podcast has become a safe haven for celebrities to unwind and spill their personal truths, and Selena’s appearance did not disappoint. Gomez, joined by Benny Blanco, spoke openly about their love story, filled with genuine emotion, unexpected turns, and quirky anecdotes.
“We were playing a game—’We’re Not Really Strangers’—when it happened,” Benny began.
“We’re Not Really Strangers”: The Game That Sparked the First Kiss
It wasn’t your typical romantic setting with candlelight and violins. No, this love story took off during a couch-side card game. The couple was playing “We’re Not Really Strangers,” a game that prompts meaningful conversations and emotional vulnerability.
Blanco recalled the moment vividly:
“The card said, ‘Take a selfie with the person next to you.’ She curled up on my chest to take the picture, and I just knew—I had to kiss her.”
An Unexpected Reaction: A Rash and Racing Heart
Now, here’s where it gets adorably awkward. As soon as Blanco leaned in for that kiss, Selena’s body betrayed her. Her heart raced, and she developed a visible rash.
“I was so nervous. My face got blotchy, and I had to pretend I was fine,” Selena laughed.
It wasn’t just a physical reaction. It was the emotional vulnerability of truly liking someone for the first time in years.
“I Hadn’t Liked Anyone in Years”: Selena’s Romantic Hiatus
Before falling for Benny, Selena admits she’d been single for nearly five years, only enduring a few “terrible dates” here and there.
“Some kisses are just fun. But when there’s emotion behind it, it’s different. This one meant something,” Gomez shared.
“Are You Okay?”—Blanco’s Gentle Response to Gomez’s Embarrassment
Instead of being put off by her visible nervousness, Benny reacted with warmth and concern.
“He looked at me and asked, ‘Are you okay?’ I wanted to scream, ‘I like you! I really like you!’ but I held it in,” said Gomez.
From Nervous Rash to Natural Chemistry
Despite the blush and the rash, everything between them flowed naturally from that moment on.
“It felt like the most natural thing in the world,” Blanco said.
Their chemistry, even in awkward moments, proved undeniable.
Rare Impact Fund Event: Love in the Spotlight
The couple appeared together publicly at the Second Annual Rare Impact Fund Benefit, a charity initiative spearheaded by Gomez to support youth mental health. Their appearance radiated chemistry and class.
Rewinding to 2013: Their First Meeting Through Mandy Teefey
Long before romance bloomed, the seeds of friendship were planted in 2013. Gomez’s mother, Mandy Teefey, introduced the two artists.
“We met through my mom, and then we worked on music together,” Selena said.
Musical Beginnings: Benny Blanco’s Role in ‘Revival’
Blanco co-produced tracks on Gomez’s 2015 album, Revival, including fan-favorites “Kill Em With Kindness” and “Same Old Love.”
Here’s a look at the collaboration:
| Track Title | Role | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| Kill Em With Kindness | Co-Producer | 2015 |
| Same Old Love | Co-Producer | 2015 |
Love Rekindled in 2023: From Collaborators to Couple
Though they first met a decade ago, it wasn’t until December 2023 that Gomez and Blanco confirmed they were dating.
Their relationship took the internet by storm, with millions of fans expressing their excitement and support.
The Engagement Announcement That Broke the Internet
In December 2024, Selena dropped a bombshell (a sparkling one!) on Instagram: she and Benny were engaged.
“Forever begins now,” she captioned a photo of her diamond ring.
Selena’s Dreamy Engagement Ring: A Sparkling Symbol of Love
The ring, a stunning custom diamond piece, features a vintage halo design with a modern twist—fitting for a couple rooted in both history and evolution.
A Prom Night to Remember: Cheesy Mall Photoshoot Goals
Not all their memories are about high glamour. The duo even recreated a cheesy mall prom photo shoot for a date night.
“It was so fun and ridiculous. We wore matching outfits and everything,” said Gomez.
Celebrating Faith and Love: Passover Seder and Karaoke Nights
Their love story blends fun with tradition. Recently, they celebrated Passover Seder together and sang their duet “Bluest Flame” karaoke-style.
“We make everything an adventure,” said Blanco.
Social Media PDA: Benny Kissing Selena’s Forehead Goes Viral
A sweet Instagram snap of Benny kissing Selena’s forehead melted fans’ hearts across platforms. The caption? A simple heart emoji.
Fans React: Why Everyone’s Rooting for Selena and Benny
Social media platforms exploded with hashtags like #Senny and #SelenaBlanco. Fans love how natural, goofy, and deeply in love they seem.
“Finally, someone who treats her right!” one user commented.
Mental Health Advocacy: A Shared Mission
Both Gomez and Blanco have spoken openly about mental health. Their shared commitment makes them more than just a celebrity couple—they’re partners in purpose.
What Makes Their Love Different? Intention and Timing
According to Selena, what sets this love story apart is the timing and the genuine intention behind it. After years of emotional self-work, she was finally ready.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749x0:751x2):format(webp)/selena-gomez-benny-blanco-bday-030825-4-531a8250ac254727bf9305b3667d9d19.jpg)
The Importance of Feeling Safe in Love
“With Benny, I feel safe. That’s rare in this industry,” she shared.
The entertainment world can be ruthless, but their bond offers a haven.
Planning the Future: Marriage, Music, and More
While no official wedding date has been announced, fans eagerly await more updates.
“We’re not rushing. We’re savoring every moment,” said Blanco.
Conclusion: A Love Story That’s Relatable and Real
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s love story reminds us that even global celebrities feel the same awkward butterflies and vulnerabilities that the rest of us do. It’s not the glitz, the glamour, or even the diamond ring that makes this story so compelling—it’s the raw honesty, the shared laughs, and the sense of safety they’ve built together.
Whether you’re a longtime Selenator or a newfound “Senny” shipper, one thing’s for sure—this romance is the real deal.
“Some kisses are fun, but others… they stay with you forever.”
