Selena Gomez is an American actress, singer, and businesswoman. She started her career as a child, appearing on the television series Barney & Friends from 2002 to 2004. Her breakthrough came with her role as Alex Russo on the Disney Channel show Wizards of Waverly Place, which aired from 2007 to 2012. In 2008, Gomez signed a recording contract with Hollywood Records. She went on to form the band Selena Gomez & the Scene, releasing three albums between 2009 and 2011. Her work in both acting and music has gained her widespread recognition.