Selena Gomez has again raised the possibility of stepping away from the music industry, less than three years after contemplating retirement. During an appearance on the SmartLess podcast with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, Gomez expressed her growing inclination towards focusing solely on acting. She reminisced about her early music career, which coincided with her time on the TV show Wizards of Waverly Place, and explained that while she initially found music and touring enjoyable, her priorities have shifted as she has aged. She admitted that the demands of being a pop star, including the mental strain that once led her to cancel a tour and seek treatment, have made her reconsider her career path.

Despite her thoughts of retiring from music, Gomez confirmed that fans can expect at least one more album from her, which she has been hinting at for some time. However, she indicated that if she had to choose between music and acting, she would likely opt for acting. The singer acknowledged the toll her busy career has taken on her and expressed a desire to "chill" and take a break. Gomez discussed how her singing career began with Disney Channel, where she was encouraged to sing for the Wizards of Waverly Place theme song. She noted that she never intended to become a singer but enjoyed the process of making an album when given the opportunity.

In a previous interview with ELLE in September 2021, Gomez had softened her stance on retiring from music, emphasizing that while she might not fully quit making music, she felt a need to prove herself in that arena. She conveyed that music holds a personal significance for her, more so than acting, as it allows her to tell her own stories and pour out her emotions. This personal connection to music is what keeps her engaged, even as she grapples with the pressures and demands of her dual career.