Francia Raisa, the actress who famously donated a kidney to Selena Gomez in 2017 during the singer’s battle with lupus, has finally spoken publicly after years of silence surrounding their strained friendship. Despite giving Gomez a life-saving organ, Raisa was noticeably absent from the guest list of Gomez’s recent wedding to music producer Benny Blanco — an omission that sparked fresh media speculation. In a recent interview recorded at a bookstore event, Raisa addressed the longstanding rumors head-on.
“Right now, what you’re asking me is nonsense that’s been in the media,” she said, noting that she had never previously spoken about the situation publicly. “There are too many rumors. I’ve never said anything.” She also denied being upset over Gomez’s alleged lifestyle habits after the transplant, such as smoking, saying she hadn’t even heard those rumors until they were brought up to her. When asked directly about not being invited to the wedding, Raisa responded with maturity and grace.
Speaking in Spanish, she said, “I know she’s getting married, and I’m very happy for her. She has her life, and she’s a billionaire now. I’m just grateful I could do that for her.” She emphasized that her donation was never meant to come with expectations, comparing it to donating money to a charity — you don’t follow up to ask what they’ve done with your donation.
Still, the emotional weight of the situation is undeniable. Raisa reflected on the seriousness of donating a kidney, noting how organ donation — especially for women — is not easy. Although she didn’t go into detail, she acknowledged the personal toll it can take. Despite that, she said she is grateful to be alive and able to say she saved a life.
Their friendship, once celebrated by fans and the media, has since cooled without much public explanation. Gomez had previously praised Raisa as a hero, but over time, that bond appeared to fade. Raisa’s absence from the wedding only highlighted the apparent distance between them.
Meanwhile, Selena’s wedding became a major online event, with photos from the celebration — including her wearing a custom Ralph Lauren dress and tender moments with Blanco — going viral. But even amidst the joy, the absence of someone who once gave her the ultimate gift was impossible for many fans to ignore.
Though Raisa’s words were calm and composed, the message behind them was powerful: she did what she did out of genuine love, without expecting anything in return. And while the future of their relationship remains unclear, Raisa has made peace with her choice — and hopes that one day, the full story will come to light.
