The reaction to Gomez's appearance in Playboy was mixed. Some fans praised her for embracing her femininity and expressing herself in a new way. Others were critical, feeling that she had "sold out" or compromised her values. The media coverage was extensive, with many outlets debating the significance of her appearance in the magazine.

A high-fashion cover story where she discussed her personal life and career transition.

She gave interviews to Elle , Harper’s Bazaar , and MTV News —not adult publications—discussing how she turned down Fifty Shades of Grey (she was offered the lead role of Anastasia Steele but declined due to nudity requirements). “I’m not that bold,” she told The Hollywood Reporter in March 2013. “I have a family that I have to answer to.”