The best is yet to come for J Lo

Jennifer Lopez confidently stated that "the best is yet to come" when asked about her career as an actress at her age. The 55-year-old star's response came during a recent screening of her upcoming Prime Video film Unstoppable, where Variety's Clayton Davis asked her an age-related question that reportedly left fans stunned.

Unfazed, Jennifer explained that no matter her age, she continues to "grow and heal", while showcasing her "vulnerable" side through the roles she takes on.

She said: "I honestly feel that the best is yet to come. I honestly feel that my creativity and who I am as an artist is like you said... . I also feel that this [movie] for me was another level for me, of going deeper into who I am as a person and as an artist. These types of roles change you in a way when you allow them to, because they come to you at times in your life when you need them. And they help you grow and heal you in a way. And if you can let yourself be vulnerable enough and real enough to show your flaws and to really expose yourself in a way as an artist, that is a gift you really want."

Reflecting on her early career, Jennifer recalled how there were few Hollywood roles that suited her heritage. She explained that her belief in herself as the "girl next door" helped her break through those barriers.

Speaking on Variety's Award Circuits podcast, she 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 moulds."

Jennifer rose to fame with her portrayal of the iconic pop star in the 1997 biopic Selena before transitioning into a successful music career with hits such as Jenny From the Block and Waiting For Tonight. Though she has focused on music, she has maintained an active presence in acting, starring in recent films like Marry Me and Shotgun Wedding. With two more films on the way, Jennifer emphasised that she continues acting out of a genuine passion for the craft, rather than for awards or accolades.

She said: "I do it for the love of the art. It's not about the awards or the accolades. It's about telling stories that matter - stories that make people feel seen, stories that inspire. That's what keeps me going."