Jennifer Lopez, aka the ultimate multi-hyphenate queen, has officially added “Kissing Spider Woman” to her résumé. Not literally, but close enough. At 55 (and still looking like she’s got the cheat code to aging), J.Lo is diving headfirst into Kiss of the Spider Woman, her first big movie musical role. And let’s just say, she’s not taking it lightly—because when has Jenny from the Block ever done anything halfway?
In an interview on Variety’s Awards Circuit podcast, Lopez dished about her latest gig, calling it the most challenging and rewarding role of her life. This is from a woman who survived Gigli, people. Let that sink in.
“It’s about love, acceptance, and finding beauty in darkness,” she shared, which sounds deep enough to require scuba gear. “These themes are so relevant right now.” J.Lo, always keeping it real and relevant—probably while rocking a killer outfit.
Legendary Composer, Legendary Compliments
The Broadway original, with music by John Kander (of Cabaret fame), isn’t your average jazz-hands-and-tap-shoes affair. Kander himself, a spry 97 years old, joined Lopez in the studio. And in true J.Lo fashion, she nailed it.
“When he told me, ‘I’ve never heard this song sung better,’ I almost fainted. I’m talking full-on diva swoon,” Lopez revealed. Honestly, can you blame her? Getting praise from a living legend is like being told by Beyoncé that you’re doing okay at life.
A Spider Woman for the Ages
In the movie, J.Lo plays Aurora, a dazzling figment of fantasy conjured by Luis Molina, a gay hairdresser stuck in an Argentinian prison circa 1981. (So yeah, definitely not Hair Spray.) Aurora is equal parts glamorous actress and terrifying Spider Woman—basically a J.Lo fever dream role.
“It’s a dark story, but it’s also about love and survival,” Lopez explained. “And honestly, isn’t that just life? Love, survival, and occasionally feeling like you’ve got eight legs to juggle everything?” Preach.
The Star-Studded Squad
J.Lo isn’t tackling this web solo. She’s starring alongside Diego Luna and has a chef’s kiss producing team, including her ex, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, and a dozen others. Because if you’re going to co-produce, why not do it with a squad that could win Oscars in their sleep?
“I do it for the love of the art,” Lopez said, proving that even as she racks up accolades, she’s still the ultimate storyteller. “It’s not about awards.” Sure, Jen. But we’re still clearing shelf space just in case.
Sports Drama, But Make It Inspirational
If starring in a musical and producing movies weren’t enough, Lopez is also out here promoting Unstoppable, a sports drama about Anthony Robles, a champion wrestler born with one leg. J.Lo plays his mom, Judy, and she’s giving us all the feels with her portrayal of a mother’s unconditional love.
“It’s a universal story,” she said. “The sacrifices Judy made, the love she gave—every parent will see themselves in it. Plus, I mean, who wouldn’t want to see me as a fierce sports mom?”
The Bottom Line
Jennifer Lopez isn’t just kissing Spider Women and making us cry over sports movies; she’s proving once again that she can do literally anything. Broadway musicals? Check. Producing movies? Check. Looking flawless while doing it all? Triple check.
Take notes, world—J.Lo is showing no signs of slowing down. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we need to go practice our Spider Woman poses just in case Hollywood comes calling.
