It was a poignant scene on the set of Enrique Iglesias’s music video for “Hero,” as revealed in a recent heartfelt disclosure by actress Jennifer Love Hewitt. The “Ghost Whisperer” star shared an emotionally charged memory from her time on set with Iglesias, detailing how the Latin pop icon was grappling with the tragic loss of his close friend, R&B sensation Aaliyah.
Aaliyah, known for her sultry voice and dynamic presence, met a tragic end in an airplane accident in the Bahamas on August 25, 2001. This incident coincided with the filming schedule of “Hero,” a track from Iglesias’s highly successful English album, Escape. The song not only achieved massive commercial success, selling over 8 million copies worldwide, but it also became a significant anthem following the September 11 attacks, often played by New York City DJs.
Enrique Iglesias’s Emotional ‘Hero’ Shoot
On the set of the “Hero” music video, which also featured Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke, Iglesias was visibly moved, channeling his grief into his performance. Hewitt, who played Iglesias’s love interest in the video, recalled the intensity of the shoot. “The craziest thing about that video shoot that I don’t think people know is that Enrique and Aaliyah were close friends and the night that we filmed that video was the night that she passed,” Hewitt told Entertainment Tonight.
This revelation sheds light on the depth of Iglesias’s performance, where his tears were not merely an act but a genuine expression of sorrow. “Enrique had to film that, all of his crying stuff, was filmed and he was really crying because she had passed,” Hewitt added. The crew and cast came together at the end of the shoot to pray for Aaliyah, dedicating the song and the video to her memory, marking a significant moment of unity and remembrance.
Reflections on Fame and Objectification in Hollywood
In the same interview, Hewitt also touched upon broader issues in Hollywood, particularly the objectification she has faced in her roles. This candid discussion highlights the challenges faced by actors, particularly women, in an industry often critiqued for its superficiality and harsh standards.
Looking Forward: Jennifer Love Hewitt’s Current Endeavors
Jennifer Love Hewitt has continued to make her mark in the entertainment industry, starring in the popular series “9-1-1,” which has been renewed for its eighth season. Her experiences, both past and present, offer a glimpse into the life of a seasoned actress navigating the complexities of Hollywood.
Legacy of Aaliyah: Beyond the Tragedy
Aaliyah’s legacy continues to resonate in the music and film industries. Known as the “Princess of R&B,” she was posthumously recognized as the 27th most successful R&B female artist in history. Her final album, Aaliyah, topped the Billboard 200, cementing her status as a music legend gone too soon.
The emotional resonance of the “Hero” video shoot, as detailed by Hewitt, offers fans a new perspective on the song that has touched so many hearts. It serves as a reminder of the real human emotions that often underlie artistic expressions and the enduring impact of genuine friendship and loss within the entertainment industry.
Source- Fandomwire
