How Jennifer Lopez Became Selena at 27: The Story Behind the Iconic Role

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In 1996, Salma Hayek famously turned down the role of the title character in the American biographical musical drama film Selena. Over 21,000 people auditioned for the title role, which, in the end, was given to Jennifer Lopez.

Capturing the essence of Selena: A 27-year-old Jennifer Lopez portrays the legendary singer in the biopicCapturing the essence of Selena: A 27-year-old Jennifer Lopez portrays the legendary singer in the biopic (Credit: Warner Bros.)

Principal photography began in September 1996 when she was 27-years-old. Jennifer Lopez turned 28 on July 24, 1997, just over four months after Selena was released on March 21, 1997.

Lip-Syncing as a Tribute: Jennifer Lopez in ‘Selena’

She didn’t sing in the movie because it is a tribute to Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. Jennifer lip-syncs to her tracks in the film.

“[The movie] made me realize, don’t neglect parts of yourself and let people put you in a box because you’re an actress. You can do this, and you can also do that,” J.Lo told Billboard in 2005, for the 20th anniversary of Selena’s death.

“Life is short, and you don’t know what’s going to happen. Go for your dreams and don’t let anyone hold you back.”

Paying homage through performance: Jennifer Lopez lip-syncs to Selena's tracks, honoring the late singer's legacyPaying homage through performance: Jennifer Lopez lip-syncs to Selena’s tracks, honoring the late singer’s legacy (Credit: Warner Bros.)

A Stylish Appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

In January 2016, Lynda Lopez’s younger sister was gearing up for a busy year. She divided her time between her Las Vegas residency, her new television series “Shades of Blue,” her American Idol work, and parenting her then 7-year-old twins.

The Anaconda actress also stopped by the ABC studios to appear as a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Chic and sophisticated: Jennifer Lopez arrives at ABC Studios for Jimmy Kimmel Live! with her hair styled down, showcasing her effortless eleganceChic and sophisticated: Jennifer Lopez arrives at ABC Studios for Jimmy Kimmel Live! with her hair styled down, showcasing her effortless elegance on January 4, 2016 (Credit: Guillermo Proano / WENN)

Jennifer arrived in a long-sleeved white top paired with a Roland Mouret “Arreton” wool-crepe pencil skirt.

Blending style and grace: Jennifer Lopez pairs a long-sleeved white top with a Roland Mouret pencil skirt for her appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!Blending style and grace: Jennifer Lopez pairs a long-sleeved white top with a Roland Mouret pencil skirt for her appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! (Credit: Guillermo Proano / WENN)

Stepping into Style: Jennifer Lopez’s Footwear

The pop diva finished her look with Christian Louboutin’s “Pigalace” heels in white and a purse from Valentino.

A step above in style: Jennifer Lopez's feet adorned with lacy Christian Louboutin heels, adding a touch of luxury to her ensembleA step above in style: Jennifer Lopez’s feet are adorned with lacy Christian Louboutin heels, adding a touch of luxury to her ensemble (Credit: Guillermo Proano / WENN)

J. Lo even brought a holiday gift for Jimmy as well. It was all part of the show.

Perfectly paired: Jennifer Lopez complements her pale pink outfit with elegant Christian Louboutin pumpsPerfectly paired: Jennifer Lopez complements her pale pink outfit with elegant Christian Louboutin pumps (Credit: Guillermo Proano / WENN)

The gorgeous Christian Louboutin “Pigalace” heels are already sold out, but you can buy a similar pair from the same designer, called “Follies,” at Net-A-Porter and Nordstrom.

Christian Louboutin's 'Pigalace' pumps are a feminine update on the classic 'Pigalle' styleChristian Louboutin’s ‘Pigalace’ pumps are a feminine update on the classic ‘Pigalle’ style

This off-white satin and lace pump is backed with mesh for structure and will look beautiful with bridal looksThis off-white satin and lace pump is backed with mesh for structure and will look beautiful with bridal looks

Christian Louboutin "Follies" Lace PumpsChristian Louboutin “Follies” Lace Pumps, $795

Christian Louboutin "Follies" Mesh PumpsChristian Louboutin “Follies” Mesh Pumps, $745