In the age of social media, where every gesture is scrutinized and potentially turned into a viral meme, celebrities are often at the forefront of this phenomenon. Selena Gomez, the multi-talented singer and actress, recently found herself in the crosshairs of the internet's meme machinery following her candid reactions at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards.

On September 19, Gomez took to Instagram to share a series of selfies, showcasing her natural beauty and resting facial features. This move came just a week after her expressive reactions at the VMAs became a hot topic on various social media platforms. In one of the shared images, the "Single Soon" singer appeared makeup-free, flaunting a natural hairdo, which garnered a flood of supportive comments from her 429 million followers. Fans praised her for her "NATURAL BEAUTY," with one admirer even questioning, "omg are you real?"

However, it wasn't just her beauty that caught the attention of netizens. Gomez's reactions during the VMAs, especially her apparent look of disapproval upon the mention of Chris Brown's name during the Best R&B nominee announcements, spread like wildfire across social platforms. The particular reaction showed Gomez scrunching her nose and pouting her lips when "How Does It Feel" by Chloe Bailey featuring Chris Brown was named as a contender. This reaction was interpreted by many as a sign of her disapproval of Brown, who had previously faced controversy for assaulting Rihanna in 2009.

Additionally, viewers highlighted Gomez's reactions to other moments during the awards show. Her concerned look during Olivia Rodrigo's on-stage performance and her evident excitement when SZA was announced as the winner of the Best R&B award were among the most discussed. However, her disappointment was palpable when she realized that the "Kill Bill" singer, SZA, wasn't present to accept the award.

Following the VMAs, Gomez expressed her frustration with the rapid spread of memes and comments about her reactions. In a candid Instagram Story post, she wrote, "I will never be a meme again. I’d rather sit still than be dragged for being myself. Much Love." This statement underscores the pressures and scrutiny celebrities face in the digital age, where every move can be magnified and interpreted in myriad ways.

While the VMAs have always been a platform for memorable moments, the age of social media has amplified these instances, making them instant talking points. As for Gomez, her decision to address the situation head-on with a series of selfies and candid remarks showcases her resilience and determination to control her narrative in an era of instant judgments.