Some inquiries should remain unanswered, particularly if they could potentially make the interviewee feel uneasy. If they respond with laughter and match the vibe, all is well, but it’s a risk.
In a recent event in Los Angeles, Variety’s senior awards editor Clayton Davis spoke with Jennifer Lopez regarding her new film, ‘Unstoppable‘. This marked their second interaction within a few weeks, as she had previously featured on his “Awards Circuit Podcast” in late November.
Davis treaded carefully… and almost faced repercussions
During their chat, which touched on various subjects, Davis mentioned that the 30th anniversary of Lopez’s notable role as Selena Quintanilla-Pérez in the 1997 film “Selena” is approaching.
“You’ll be 60 by then…” he remarked. Lopez responded with a gentle smile, saying, “Wow!”
“…which is quite a milestone,” Davis joked, to which Lopez replied, “It’s amusing when you say I’m ‘getting up there.’“
The star appeared unfazed by this comment, nodding while saying, “I am.” However, an audience member’s audible reaction, “Did he really just say that?” revealed some tension, a moment that TMZ later highlighted.
And in that moment, Davis realized…
Foreseeing any negative feedback, Davis insisted his remarks were merely playful, maintaining he “would never speak to the star that way.” Lopez diffused the situation by addressing her followers: “What a journey this has been, and I genuinely believe my best days are still ahead.“
Instead of diverting the topic, she opted to share a positive perspective on aging, explaining that getting older has enriched her understanding of herself as both an individual and an artist.
After the event, Davis shared on his Instagram, reflecting on the discussion: “It was wonderful to explore Jennifer Lopez’s career. I enjoyed discussing her most memorable roles, including SELENA, OUT OF SIGHT, HUSTLERS, and her latest film, #Unstoppable,” he wrote.
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