Lopez was selected as a backup dancer for the New Kids on the Block in 1991 and performed with them during their performance of " Games " at the 18th Annual American Music Awards . Shortly after , Lopez gained her first regular high-profile job as a Fly Girl dancer on the television program '' In Living Color '' . She applied for the job after one of the cast members was unable to continue with the show . Out of 2,000 applicants , Lopez made it to the finals . She was the runner-up but eventually received the role when the winner was unable to accept the job . She moved to Los Angeles to film the series and remained a regular cast member until 1993 , when she decided to pursue a full-time acting career . Prior to leaving the show , Lopez briefly worked as a backup dancer for American recording artist Janet Jackson . Lopez was set to tour with Jackson on her Janet World Tour in late 1993 but backed out as she wanted to do her " own thing "
18th Annual American Music Awards
American Music Awards of 1991
Jennifer Lopez