How Jennifer Lopez Outshined Sandra Bullock for Out of Sight Lead Role

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In 1998, Jennifer Lopez starred opposite George Clooney in the crime comedy film “Out of Sight,” Steven Soderbergh’s adaptation of Elmore Leonard’s novel of the same name that you can buy on Amazon.

Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney bring dynamic charisma to their roles in 'Out of Sight', vividly portraying Jack Foley and Karen SiscoJennifer Lopez and George Clooney bring dynamic charisma to their roles in ‘Out of Sight’, vividly portraying Jack Foley and Karen Sisco (Credit: Universal Pictures)

Casting Insights: Lopez vs. Bullock for Karen Sisco

Portraying Karen Sisco, a deputy federal marshal who falls for a charming criminal, Lopez was praised for her performance. According to an interview with Steven Soderbergh, Sandra Bullock was initially considered for the role.

Filming ended on January 12, 1998, when Jennifer Lopez was 28. She was born on July 24, 1969, in Castle Hill, New York, and turned 29 on July 24, 1998. “Out of Sight” was released on June 26, 1998.

Captured at 28, Jennifer Lopez embodies the spirited Karen Sisco in the filming of 'Out of Sight'Captured at 28, Jennifer Lopez embodies the spirited Karen Sisco in the filming of ‘Out of Sight’ (Credit: Universal Pictures)

“I have this attitude, and it won’t change no matter how big I get, that you have to fight for things you want. You can’t expect things to be handed to you on a platter, even if you can fill theatres week in and week out,” she said in an interview with Movieline in 1998 about beating out Sandra Bullock for the lead role.

“Because there’s always somebody like me ready to kick down the door and steal the job right out from under you,” she added.

Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney captivate at the New York premiere of 'Out of Sight' on June 24, 1998Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney captivate at the New York premiere of ‘Out of Sight’ on June 24, 1998 (Credit: Everett Collection / Shutterstock)

A few years later, Jennifer Lopez stepped in for Sandra Bullock in the 2002 American thriller film Enough. Bullock’s initial casting generated buzz, but scheduling clashes forced her to drop out.

Chemistry on Screen: George Clooney’s Influence on Casting

“One of the smart things George did was to screen-test everybody because he knew he’d had trouble with the women in his movies, where maybe there wasn’t as much chemistry as there could have been.”

Jennifer Lopez elegantly dressed in a John Galliano for Dior white plunging-neckline slip dress at the 'Out of Sight' premiere in 1998Jennifer Lopez elegantly dressed in a John Galliano for Dior white plunging-neckline slip dress at the ‘Out of Sight’ premiere in 1998 (Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock)

“Universal was pushing for Sandra Bullock because they said she’d put people in seats. George and the director met with her, but they were like, ‘If Sandra really wants it, she’s gonna have to test for it.’ She wouldn’t test, and her agent, who is also my agent, supported that.”

“If I was Sandy, I’d say, ‘Well, I’m gonna show them that I can do it. I’ll read with them, make them offer me the part, then make them pay out the a**.'”

Triumph in casting: Jennifer Lopez secures the coveted lead role in 'Out of Sight', a role also eyed by Sandra BullockTriumph in casting: Jennifer Lopez secures the coveted lead role in ‘Out of Sight’, a role also eyed by Sandra Bullock (Credit: Universal Pictures)

Jennifer Lopez on Letterman: Showcasing Timeless Elegance

In November 2014, Out of Sight actress Jennifer Lopez sported another amazing look while showing off her toned tummy for a “Late Show with David Letterman” appearance in New York City.

The then-45-year-old superstar was busy promoting her book “True Love.” The previous day, she gave interviews on the Today Show and for Huffington Post. You can buy her bestselling page-turner on Amazon.

Jennifer Lopez flashing her toned tummy in black-belted wide-leg pantsJennifer Lopez flashes her toned tummy in black-belted wide-leg pants (Credit: Andres Otero / WENN)

Jennifer donned black-belted wide-leg pants from the Paula Ka Resort 2015 collection paired with Milly’s crossover strappy halterneck top for her appearance on David Letterman’s show.

She completed the ensemble with a black Noon by Noor jacket and matching shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti.

Jennifer Lopez wearing a crossover strappy halterneck top by Milly at the Late Show with David Letterman in New York City on November 5, 2014Jennifer Lopez wearing a crossover strappy halterneck top by Milly at the Late Show with David Letterman in New York City on November 5, 2014 (Credit: Andres Otero / WENN)

Would you dare to flaunt your stomach like Jennifer Lopez?

While her pumps could not be seen underneath her wide-leg pants, she sported the same black suede Giuseppe Zanotti pumps we saw her wearing the previous day. They feature pointy toes and thin ankle straps.

Giuseppe Zanotti Suede Ankle-Strap Platform PumpsGiuseppe Zanotti Suede Ankle-Strap Platform Pumps, $750