Jan 5, 2007, 12:20 GMT
Jennifer Lopez has been named one of America's most influential Hispanics.
J-Lo REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni
The actress-singer-and-designer topped the entertainment section in a list of the 100 Most Influential Hispanics.
J.Lo told People en Espanol magazine, the publication that compiled the list: "Being an example to others is a big part of my work. It excites me to think that I could be capable of changing opinions, or of making people laugh or cry. It's a beautiful facet of the work that we do."
The 37-year-old, who graces the magazine's February front cover, was listed ahead of fellow singers Shakira, Ricky Martin and Gloria Estefan.
Hollywood stars appearing on the list included Eva Longoria, Salma Hayek, Antonio Banderas and Emilio Estefan.
The 37-year-old's singer husband Marc Anthony did not make the list.
J.Lo and Anthony - who has a 12-year-old daughter Arianna, five-year-old son Cristian and three-year-old son Ryan from previous relationships - hinted they are hoping to have a baby soon.
J.Lo said: "I come from a strong family, so of course I want to have one. But I also have my own family - my immediate family, my husband, and his children. I am a part of all this. In this sense, I am very fortunate."
Lopez, who grew up in the Bronx, also revealed her family roots have been instrumental to her success.
She explained: "I have tried to calm down the past couple of years since I got married.
"I have actually grown as an artist and as a person. I realized that everything I was doing leaned towards my roots."
(C) BANG Media International
Your Talkback on this Story