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Jennifer Lopez said during the start of her career she often auditioned for stereotypical roles.
Jennifer Lopez believes that it’s crucial to spread love, positivity and unity. (Photo Credits: Instagram)
Jennifer Lopez reflected on her Hollywood journey, sharing the challenges she faced as a Latina actress and the mindset that helped her succeed. She explained that there were limited roles for Latinas, often confined to stereotypes, and she frequently auditioned for such parts. However, she questioned why she couldn’t portray roles like the romantic lead or the girl next door. Lopez also discussed overcoming imposter syndrome, emphasising the importance of challenging negative thoughts. She believes turning those thoughts into positive affirmations and reminding herself of her past hard work has played a crucial role in her success.
In an interview on Variety’s Awards Circuit podcast, the singer said, “I heard someone say that positive change is slow and it is, but as long as we’re moving in the right direction, that’s what matters. When I started, there weren’t a lot of roles for Latinas. I was auditioning for parts with accents and stereotypes. I kept thinking, ‘Why can’t I just play a romantic lead? Why can’t I be the girl next door?’ That belief, that conviction that I belonged, was what helped me break those molds.”
According to Jennifer Lopez, “Imposter syndrome is real, especially when you come from neighbourhoods like I did. But I’ve learned that it’s about what you tell yourself. You have to redirect that inner voice. Whenever the doubts creep in, ‘I don’t belong here, I’m not good enough,’ you need to replace them with, ‘No, I’ve worked hard. I do belong here.’ It’s a mindset that transforms everything.”
She believes that in today’s world, it is crucial to spread love, positivity and unity. She feels that artists have a special role to play in bringing people together by using their voices and platforms. While it can be easy to feel discouraged, she tries to stay focused on the positive things.
Jennifer Lopez recently appeared in Unstoppable, a film about Anthony Robles, a wrestler with one leg who became a champion. Lopez’ next project is the adaptation of the Tony Award-winning musical, Kiss of the Spider-Woman, directed by Bill Condon.
