Posted by Andrew Unterberger on 04/15/2011 at 11:36 AM Exclusive, News

The Popdust Files: american idol, high highs and low lows, jennifer lopez

PART I: THE FLY GIRL YEARS

Blowing up In Living Color (1991-1993)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzKhOMFrUaA&NR=1

Growing up in the Castle Hill section of the the Bronx, all those subway rides to Manhattan finally pay off when the 22-year-old Jennifer Lopez lands a spot as a Fly Girl on the sketch comedy show In Living Color. Lopez popped and locked with future Dancing With the Stars judge Carrie Anne Inaba and Lady Gaga choreographer Laurieann Gibson. We miss that dark lipstick just as much as she probably misses those shoulder pads.

Marriage to Cuban waiter Ojani Noa. (Feb. 22, 1997)

Photo: Getty Images

While stringing together acting roles in the mid ’90s, Lopez marries Cuban waiter Ojani Noa on February 22, 1997. The two divorce after less than a year of wedded bliss. The first of her many of failed personal and professional collaborations.

Selena movie released (Mar. 21, 1997)

J. Lo’s fledgling acting career hits the big time in 1997 when Greogry Nava chooses her to portray the late Tejano singer Selena. Lopez earns a Golden Globe nomination for her performance, kicking off a promising movie career that includes the critically acclaimed Out of Sight (1998) with George Clooney, and box office successes like The Wedding Planner (2001) and Monster-in-Law (2005).

For Part II: THAT ASS! THAT VOICE? THAT DRESS!!, click NEXT.