Jennifer Lopez Canceled Cyprus Show and Faces Possible Lawsuit

Agence France-Presse reported that the Cratos Premium Hotel & Casino in Cyprus said it might sue Latin icon Jennifer Lopez after she withdrew from a scheduled performance for fear that her show would be misinterpreted as being a political statement. Lopez was booked to perform at the grand opening of the hotel, planned to take place on July 24, 2010.

The Latin diva was expected to bring her husband Marc Anthony and their two children along with her to celebrate her 41st birthday in style. Her performance at the Cratos Premium – located on the Turkish occupied northers Cyprus - on July 24 would coincide with the anniversary of the Turkish annexation of the northern part of the island. Greek Cypriots have stated that the opening of the hotel  on the part of Cyprus, which is still occupied by Turkey, would polarize the nation.

The chief executive of the company that runs Cratos Premium Hotel & Casino, Murat Bozoglu, told Agence France-Presse Agence France-Press last Monday that Ms. Lopez's contract for the show had not been canceled. He said, “If she does not show up for the concert, we will begin a procedure in the courts to claim $35 to $40 million in damages.” The representatives of Jennifer Lopez commented on the artist’s withdrawal last week by commenting that her not going through with her planned performance revolved around sensitivity to the political realities of the region”.

It is not clear if the hotel had organized its grand opening and the concert on that controversial date on purpose, or if Jennifer Lopez was aware of the delicate political situation on the island prior to her accepting the gig. The Turkish occupation of northern Cyprus is only recognized by Turkey.

This clip is dedicated to the wonderful people of Cyprus.