Selena Gomez and her mother, Mandy Teefey, are facing accusations from investors who claim Gomez’s name, influence and expected involvement were used to attract funding for mental health company Wondermind.
Attorney Jeffrey Neiman, who represents the investors suing Gomez and others, told TMZ that mental health should not be used as a means of generating personal financial gain. He said: “Mental health is not a marketing strategy, and should never be used as a vehicle for personal financial gain.”
Neiman alleged that Gomez’s celebrity status and promised role were central to Wondermind’s efforts to secure investment. He argued that investors and the public were encouraged to trust the company because of Gomez’s involvement.
“Selena wasn’t simply associated with the pitch. She was the pitch.” According to the lawsuit, Gomez was presented to investors as Wondermind’s “head of marketing”, with expectations that she would use her substantial social media following to promote the company and help grow its audience.
The investors further allege that Gomez helped bring people into the company but later distanced herself from Wondermind after funding had been secured. Gomez, her mother and former business partner Daniella Pierson were previously sued by investors who claim they were misled about Wondermind and Gomez’s role in the business.
Gomez has denied the allegations. Her attorney previously described the claims as “completely meritless, both factually and legally.” The lawsuit is ongoing, and the allegations against Gomez and the other defendants have not been proven in court.