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Selena Gomez reunited with Demi Lovato at her tour opening. The two Disney alums hadn’t appeared publicly together in nearly 9 years. Their emotional backstage hug proved a friendship that runs deeper than time.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Event: Demi Lovato’s “It’s Not That Deep” tour opening on April 13 in Orlando, Florida
- Reunion: First public appearance together in 9 years after 2017 InStyle event
- Special Guest: Joe Jonas surprised fans with surprise duet of “This Is Me”
- Friendship Origin: Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato met on Barney & Friends in 2002
A Decade of Distance Melts Away at Kia Center
Selena Gomez walked into the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida on April 13 not as a fan, but as a friend returning. She wore Demi Lovato merch and watched from a VIP section. The moment captured hearts instantly.
Gomez posted on Instagram Story, gushing about the performance. She called it “hands down one of the best shows.” Her praise included all caps emphasis on Demi’s powerful vocals. Later, she shared a backstage photo of both embracing, adding a red heart emoji.
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When Disney Stars Cross Paths Again After Years Apart
Both ladies rose to fame through Disney Channel projects in the late 2000s. Selena Gomez starred in “Wizards of Waverly Place,” while Demi Lovato dominated “Sonny with a Chance” and the “Camp Rock” franchise. They even co-starred together in the 2009 movie “Princess Protection Program.”
Their connection ran deeper than just work. They’d known each other since age 7, meeting on the children’s show “Barney & Friends.” That childhood bond created what Demi called “a built-in friendship” when they both entered Disney as young performers. In 2014, Demi had unfollowed Gomez on social media, fueling rumors of conflict. But they always maintained there were no hard feelings.
What the 2026 Tour Setlist Reveals About Demi’s New Era
Demi Lovato opened strong at her 18-show tour run with hits spanning her entire career. The setlist showcased her evolution as an artist. Songs like “Fast,” “Kiss,” and “Frequency” anchored the opening. Classic fan favorites followed, including “Heart Attack” and “Tell Me You Love Me.”
| Song Category | Selections |
| Newer Tracks | Fast, Kiss, Frequency, Little Bit |
| Fan Favorites | Heart Attack, Cool for the Summer, Confident |
| Emotional Ballads | Tell Me You Love Me, Give Your Heart a Break |
| Surprise Element | “This Is Me” duet with Joe Jonas |
The inclusion of “This Is Me” from “Camp Rock” was strategic. Joe Jonas joined Demi on stage, surprising the packed arena. The two had dated briefly in 2010 but clearly maintain respect and friendship. This performance echoed their August 2025 duet at the Jonas20 anniversary tour at MetLife Stadium.
“I am in tears. This was hands down one of the best shows. Oh and the VOCALS? Psh *blown away*.”
Selena Gomez, on Instagram Story
A Friendship That Survived the Spotlight’s Pressure
In March 2026, Demi had spoken openly about her gratitude for Selena on the “Baby, This is Keke Palmer” podcast. She reflected on their Barney & Friends days with warmth. According to Demi, that childhood friendship gave her “safety” when entering the competitive Disney Channel world.
The April 13 reunion proved that childhood bond never truly faded. Life circumstances, different careers, and personal growth had simply created distance. But loyalty remained. Demi reshared Selena’s backstage photo with her own message: “Thank you so much for coming!!! Loved seeing you.” The honesty was refreshing.
Will This Reunion Lead to More Disney Channel Moments Together?
The reunion sparked speculation about potential future collaborations. Fans theorized about possible duets, joint projects, or even social media follow-backs. Selena Gomez has remained close with other Disney alumni. She recently celebrated the success of multiple franchises coming back in 2026.
Whether this April moment launches a rekindled friendship or remains a beautiful one-off moment remains unknown. But one thing is certain: Selena Gomez felt what millions of fans felt seeing these two icons together again. Healing. Hope. Home.
Sources
- E! Online – Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato reunited publicly for the first time in nearly 10 years at the tour opener
- USA Today – Coverage of Demi Lovato’s It’s Not That Deep tour opening with Disney reunion moments
- Billboard – Setlist details from the April 13, 2026 tour opening show in Orlando
