Pitbull Reveals the Secret Behind His Viral Photo With Jennifer Lopez

American rapper Pitbull has revealed the story behind one of the most talked-about photos of him and Jennifer Lopez, taken during their joint performance at the 2011 American Music Awards. According to the rapper, Lopez unexpectedly added a dance move that they had not rehearsed, catching him completely off guard.

The 45-year-old musician, whose real name is Armando Christian Pérez, recalled the moment during a fan Q&A at Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami.

Pitbull said he has enormous respect for the 57-year-old Lopez and considers it an honor to work with her. But when discussing their performance, he couldn't resist sharing a funny behind-the-scenes confession.

“There's a picture of Jennifer and me at an awards show. During rehearsal, she didn't do one particular move, but she did it during the actual show. And when she did it, I perked up,” the rapper said, prompting laughter from the audience.

In the now-famous photo, Lopez is seen dancing with her backside pressed against Pitbull as the pair perform their hit On the Floor. That moment was the inspiration behind the rapper's candid revelation.

Before joining Pitbull onstage, Lopez also performed Until It Beats No More and Papi before teaming up with him for their dance hit.

Despite the playful tone of his story, Pitbull emphasized how much he admires Lopez and her career, noting how far she has come and how she continues to succeed.

Toward the end of the conversation, the rapper also addressed Lopez and Shakira, both of whom he has collaborated with for years. Jokingly, he said the two stars now owed him a favor and should help him land a performance at the Super Bowl in Miami.

Pitbull and Lopez have recorded several songs together, including Drinks for You (Ladies Anthem), Dance Again and Live It Up.

Interest in their music has recently surged again after On the Floor gained a new wave of popularity thanks to the series Off Campus.