anything but ordinary

Jennifer Lopez transforms into Jane Fonda's Barbarella, and the look is so sexy


J.Lo channels Jane Fonda's iconic 1968 sci-fi heroine with blonde bombshell hair, daring futuristic outfits, and a special tribute to her former co-star


© WireImage
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
NOVEMBER 3, 2026 3:58 PM EST

Jennifer Lopez just took Halloween to another galaxy! The 57-year-old superstar transformed into Barbarella, the legendary space heroine made famous by Jane Fonda in the 1968 science-fiction film, and her Halloween 2026 costume was anything but ordinary.

From barely-there bodysuits and metallic boots to voluminous blonde hair, Lopez recreated the retro-futuristic glamour of the original movie with a distinctly J.Lo twist.

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But behind the daring transformation was a tribute to her longtime friend and former Monster-in-Law co-star, Jane Fonda.

And if the original Halloween photos weren't enough, Lopez returned to Instagram on November 2 with even more behind-the-scenes images, giving fans a closer look at her elaborate transformation. 

Jennifer Lopez's Barbarella Halloween Costume Is a Sci-Fi Fashion Fantasy

Jennifer Lopez has never been one to approach Halloween halfheartedly, and her Barbarella-inspired photoshoot proved just how seriously she takes a memorable costume. For one look, the singer slipped into a distressed black bodysuit featuring sheer detailing, metallic chainmail accents, and a short silver skirt.

She completed the outfit with silver heeled boots, futuristic accessories, and dramatic blonde waves reminiscent of Fonda's unforgettable 1960s hairstyle.

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Another look featured a plunging white bodysuit with contrasting black detailing, paired with matching thigh-high boots.

The result was a combination of vintage Hollywood glamour, space-age fantasy, and the fearless fashion choices that have become part of Lopez's signature style.

The photoshoot also recreated elements of the original film, including the winged character Pygar, portrayed by Holden Maples in Lopez's Halloween images.

One particularly daring photograph showed Lopez posing with her bare back toward the camera, adding another cinematic reference to the elaborate production. 

Jennifer Lopez Dressed as Jane Fonda's Barbarella

The costume wasn't simply an excuse to wear fabulous space-age fashion. Lopez revealed that her Halloween inspiration came directly from Jane Fonda, the Hollywood legend who played her future mother-in-law in the 2005 romantic comedy Monster-in-Law.

 Actors Jane Fonda (L) and Jennifer Lopez pose at the afterparty for the premiere of New Line Cinema's "Monster-In-Law"  on April 29, 2005© Getty Images
Actors Jane Fonda (L) and Jennifer Lopez pose at the afterparty for the premiere of New Line Cinema's "Monster-In-Law" on April 29, 2005

In her Instagram caption, Lopez playfully explained that she had dressed as her Monster-in-Law for Halloween, affectionately describing Fonda as the original space angel.

She also tagged the actress and expressed her love for her. The reference was especially fitting considering their onscreen history.

In Monster-in-Law, Lopez played Charlotte "Charlie" Cantilini, a bride-to-be whose wedding plans are threatened by her controlling future mother-in-law, Viola Fields, played by Fonda.

 Jennifer Lopez and Jane Fonda at The Hollywood Walk Of Fame on June 20, 2013 in Hollywood, California.© WireImage
Jennifer Lopez and Jane Fonda at The Hollywood Walk Of Fame on June 20, 2013 in Hollywood, California.

Their characters may have been enemies on screen, but the actresses developed a genuine friendship during filming.

J.Lo Goes Blonde for Her Dramatic Barbarella Transformation

Of course, no Barbarella transformation would be complete without the hair. Lopez traded her familiar brunette look for voluminous blonde waves that captured the glamorous, slightly rebellious spirit of the late 1960s.

Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton helped create the bombshell hairstyle, while stylist Rob Zangardi was among the creative collaborators credited for the shoot.

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The beauty look leaned into glowing skin, dramatic styling, and the unmistakable confidence associated with both Lopez and Fonda.

The combination of metallic fashion, thigh-high boots, and exaggerated blonde volume gave the photographs the feel of a vintage science-fiction movie poster.

What Is Barbarella? The Jane Fonda Movie Behind J.Lo's Costume

For anyone unfamiliar with the original character, Barbarella is a 1968 science-fiction adventure starring Jane Fonda as a glamorous space traveler. Directed by Roger Vadim, the film follows Barbarella as she journeys through space on a mission involving a dangerous scientist and a weapon capable of threatening humanity.

Although the film received mixed reactions upon its original release, it eventually developed a cult following.

American actress Jane Fonda plays the lead in the erotic science fiction fantasy film 'Barbarella', 1968. (Photo by Archive Photos/Getty Images)© Getty Images
Jane Fonda, US actress, in a publicity portrait issued for the film, 'Barbarella', 1968. The science fiction film, directed by Roger Vadim (1928-2000), starred Fonda as 'Barbarella'. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)© Getty Images
Full-length shot of Jane Fonda, US actress, in costume in a studio portrait, against white background, issued as publicity for the film, 'Barbarella', 1968. The science fiction film, directed by Roger Vadim (1928-2000), starred Fonda as 'Barbarella'. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)© Getty Images

Its futuristic costumes, provocative imagery, psychedelic production design, and distinctive 1960s aesthetic helped make Barbarella a recognizable figure in pop culture.

Fonda's wardrobe became one of the movie's most enduring features, influencing generations of fashion designers, performers, and Halloween costumes.

With her 2026 recreation, Lopez brought that memorable aesthetic to a new audience while honoring the actress who made the character famous.