Selena Gomez Underwent Chemotherapy To Treat Lupus, Could Have Suffered A Stroke

Selena Gomez has opened up about the circumstances surrounding her hiatus at the end of 2013 and early 2014, revealing that it had to do with her lupus diagnosis.

Selena Gomez Had Lupus

It was reported in December 2013 that Gomez was canceling the Australia and Asia legs of her world tour because of worsening lupus symptoms. However, reports that followed suggested that it wasn’t lupus but perhaps mental health issues or even problems with addiction. In January 2014, it was claimed that the former Disney star had entered rehab.

“I was diagnosed with lupus, and I’ve been through chemotherapy,” Gomez told Billboard, explaining the real reason for the break. “That’s what my break was really about. I could’ve had a stroke.”

Regarding the reports that she was in rehab, Gomez admits that it was difficult not to release a statement refuting the rumors.

“I wanted so badly to say, ‘You guys have no idea. I’m in chemotherapy. You’re a––holes,'” Gomez said. “I locked myself away until I was confident and comfortable again.”

Gomez’s new album, Revival, was largely inspired by this period of time in which there was ongoing speculation in the tabloids about what was going on with her.

“I’m so f–king nice to everybody, and everyone is so vile to me. I’ve been working since I was 7. I’ve been a UNICEF ambassador since I was 17,” Gomez said. “It’s so disappointing that I’ve become a tabloid story. That hate motivated me.”

Gomez is dropping Revival on Friday, Oct. 9. Earlier this week, the actress and singer revealed concert dates for her 2016 tour.