An awkward remark during a high-profile interview left audiences buzzing as a celebrated star gracefully turned the moment into one of charm and composure.
During a December 15 screening of her new movie, an interviewer’s unexpected comment gave Jennifer Lopez the chance to display her signature poise, turning an awkward moment into one of grace and composure. The exchange sparked mixed reactions from fans.
A fan comment, dated December 17, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tmz_tv
In a video shared by TMZ, Variety editor Clayton Davis started the conversation by reflecting on Lopez’s iconic performance in the film “Selena.”
“Listen, I can’t believe it’s been 30 years since ‘Selena,'” he said. He followed up with a comment about Lopez’s future, stating, “I can’t believe that in 30 years we’re going to do the retrospective of this, and you will be 60 by then.” The audience audibly reacted as Davis added, “which is getting up there.”
The 55-year-old actress, maintaining her composure, nodded in response and replied, “I am.” The journalist quickly shifted the focus to Lopez’s latest movie, “Unstoppable,” describing it as “one of your best performances.”
However, Lopez was not ready to let the earlier remark pass unnoticed. With a smile, she addressed Davis’ comment, saying, “It’s funny you think that I’m getting up there.” Davis attempted to clarify, emphasizing that it was “a joke.”
Jennifer Lopez on December 15, 2024, in Culver City, California | Source: Getty Images
In a masterful move, J.Lo turned toward the audience and said, “It’s because I want to say thank you, you guys. Because we’ve been doing this a long time together. Been doing it a long time, and you guys have been here with me.”
The “Atlas” star also reflected on her career journey, sharing that she had performed her first single, “If You Had My Love,” released in 1999, earlier that day, alongside some new songs.
Jennifer Lopez on December 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
“I honestly feel that the best is yet to come,” stated the “Jersey Girl” alum. Reflecting on her personal and artistic growth, she added, “I honestly feel that my creativity and who I am as an artist—like you said, I also feel that this, for me, was another kind of level for me of going deeper into who I am as a person, as an artist.”
Judy Robles and Jennifer Lopez on December 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Lopez’s composed response to the interviewer’s unexpected comment about her age ignited heated discussions across social media. Fans took to Instagram and Facebook to share their thoughts, ranging from criticism of the interviewer to praise for the A-lister’s poise.
A fan comment, dated December 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/usweekly
On Instagram, one user remarked, “Interviewer [sic] was extremely rude!” Another echoed this sentiment, “That was so rude.” Highlighting the nature of the comment, a third user questioned, “Why did he think it was ok to comment on her age and his thoughts about it? She handled it with such grace tho [sic] 👏.” Some reactions were stronger, with one user stating, “Getting up there?? Yikes. He should be fired.”
Clayton Davis and Jennifer Lopez on December 15, 2024, in Culver City, California | Source: Getty Images
Others focused on Lopez’s demeanor, with a user noting, “Completely [sic] unprofessional comment but she handled herself with poise and grace.” Another added, “Regardless [sic] her age, she looks amazing👏”
Facebook users also joined the conversation. One comment asked, “What’s the point of him saying that?” Another user acknowledged both perspectives, saying, “The way he expressed her age lacked tact but I actually appreciate people normalizing aging and thriving. She handled her response beautifully, by the way.”
Jennifer Lopez on December 15, 2024, in Culver City, California | Source: Getty Images
Some speculated about Lopez’s true feelings, with one writing, “you know she wanted to go off on that guy. Someone got fired [sic].” A more succinct response read, “Disrespectful.”
Lopez’s career and recent accomplishments remain at the forefront of discussions following her poised response. The conversation has naturally shifted toward her body of work and her enduring impact on Hollywood, with her latest project, “Unstoppable,” serving as a testament to her versatility.
Jennifer Lopez and Jharrel Jerome on December 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Following the controversial interview, Davis took to Instagram to share a snapshot of his interaction with the “Dance Again” singer. In the post, he expressed admiration for her extensive career, “Jennifer Lopez [sic] career retrospective was a delight. Had a great time discussing some of her most iconic roles, including SELENA, OUT OF SIGHT, HUSTLERS, and her newest film, #Unstoppable.”
Jennifer Lopez and Clayton Davis on November 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Accompanying the post was a photo of Davis standing next to Lopez, both smiling, in front of a promotional poster for “Unstoppable.” Lopez sported a chic light blue blazer with matching denim, effortlessly showcasing her signature style. Another image from the event captured Lopez smiling mid-interview, further highlighting her poise and warmth during the discussion.
Clayton Davis and Jennifer Lopez on December 15, 2024, in Culver City, California | Source: Getty Images
Lopez’s new movie, “Unstoppable,” has been a central talking point in recent discussions. The film, inspired by the real-life story of wrestler Anthony Robles, chronicles his journey to becoming a national champion in 2011 despite being born with one leg.
William Goldenberg, Jharrel Jerome, Jennifer Lopez, Judy Robles, and Anthony Robles on December 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Starring Jharrel Jerome, Anthony Robles himself, Michael Peña, and Lopez, the film explores themes of perseverance and triumph against all odds. Lopez’s involvement highlights her commitment to meaningful roles that resonate with audiences on a deep, emotional level.
Jennifer Lopez and Jharrel Jerome on December 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
In an earlier interview with Elle from November 2023, the “I’m Real” actress shared her perspective on the evolving landscape of roles for older women in Hollywood. “It has changed a lot, and I think it’s appropriate. As you get older and you have more experience, you become a richer human being and you have more to offer,” J.Lo said.
Jennifer Lopez on December 05, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on the misconceptions surrounding aging, she remarked, “The idea of, ‘There’s nothing really valuable about watching a woman over 30’ is so ridiculous, it’s the opposite of right.” She also touched on the wisdom and richness of character that come with age, adding, “People have realized that women just get sexier as they get older. They get more learned and more rich with character.”
Lopez emphasized her refusal to let societal norms dictate the trajectory of her career. “I see myself working [as long as] I want to. I don’t know what that age is. It might be 70, it might be 80, it might be 90, I don’t know. But I know that it’s there for me if I want it and I want to create it,” expressed the “Let’s Get Loud” songstress, highlighting her determination to continue working as long as she desires.
Jennifer Lopez on November 5, 2024, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
“That has always been the mindset that I’ve had: to never let anybody put me in a box because of where I was born, where I’m from, what age I am, anything like that. Those boundaries don’t exist for me.”
In a December 2020 interview with Hola, Lopez, then 51, expressed her views on the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards. Responding to her skincare brand JLo Beauty’s mantra, “Beauty has no expiration date,” she remarked, “No one wants to hear ‘Oh, you look great for 50.’ You want to hear ‘You look great!’ It doesn’t matter what age you are.”
Lopez championed the idea of embracing natural beauty, aging gracefully, and rejecting the unrealistic standards perpetuated by filters and cosmetic enhancements.
Jennifer Lopez on November 07, 2024, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
“It’s actually disruptive to say; you know what, being more natural, taking care of your skin, and aging in a beautiful, graceful way is, is a crazy thought these days,” shared the “Get Right” singer. “You don’t have to do that, but the truth is, you can do that. And you can embrace yourself from all that you are. You look great, no matter what age you are!” J.Lo declared, reinforcing her belief in authenticity and self-acceptance.
Jennifer Lopez on November 04, 2023, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez’s words and actions continue to resonate with fans, serving as an inspiration for embracing one’s age and individuality while pursuing excellence in every aspect of life.