Jennifer Lopez continues to challenge herself after decades in Hollywood.
In a recent interview with Diversity’with Prize giving round podcast, Lopez, 55 — who’s acting kiss of spider woman adaptation of the 1993 Broadway musical — opened up about landing her first role in a major motion picture musical.
“It’s probably the most challenging and rewarding role I’ve ever had,” Lopez said. “It’s about love, acceptance and finding beauty in darkness. I think those topics are so relevant right now.”
The Tony Award-winning show was put together by John Kander, who is back for the upcoming movie, and Lopez was ready to watch him in action.
“John Kander was in the studio with me when I recorded my songs,” she said. “He is 97 years old and still so full of life. To hear him say, ‘I’ve never heard this song sung better’ — it was one of the best moments of my career.”
Jennifer Lopez.
Darren Gerrish/Getty
In the musical, written and directed by Bill Condon, Lopez plays a woman named Aurora — a character created by Luis Molina, a gay hairdresser imprisoned in Argentina around 1981, and Marxist Valentin Arregui Paz. As a form of escape from reality, Molina fantasized about Aurora as an actress taking on the role of Spider-Woman in the film.
“It’s a dark story, but also a story about love and survival – about helping each other through hard times,” Lopez explained. “I think that’s the message we really need right now.”
Everything you need to know about Jennifer Lopez Kiss of the spider woman Movie musical, co-produced by Ben Affleck
He stars alongside Diego Luna and also co-produces alongside ex Ben Affleck and 12 others, including Matt Damon.
“I do it for the love of the art,” Lopez said of her diverse repertoire. “It’s not about awards or accolades. It’s about telling stories that matter — stories that make people feel seen, stories that inspire. That’s what keeps me going.”
Jennifer Lopez.
Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty
Lopez was full as she continues to promote her sports drama Unstoppable, which premiered in September at the Toronto International Film Festival. It follows the story of wrestling champion Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome), who was born with one leg, and his mother Judy Robles, played by Lopez.
“It’s not often that you have a movie like this,” she told the outlet. “I identified with her. I understood their upbringing, struggles, relationships and the sacrifices Judy made for her son. She realized early on that if she doesn’t accept her child, how will he accept himself? That moment of love and growth — it’s universal.”
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Kiss of the spider woman no official release date yet.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education