Does Mariah Carey Finally “Know” Jennifer Lopez — 22 Years After the Viral Interview?
Two decades later, and one of pop culture’s most legendary lines still lives rent-free in our heads: “I don’t know her.”
And now, Mariah Carey has officially revisited the moment that birthed one of the internet’s most iconic memes.
During a solo appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen on October 1, the Emotions singer was once again asked about her long-running, mysterious “non-relationship” with Jennifer Lopez — and her response proved that some things truly never change.
“To clarify, you still do not know her, right?” Andy pressed.
Mariah smiled and replied, “How can I suddenly know? You know? You’re right.”
The crowd laughed, but Mariah seemed completely unbothered — as if 22 years of internet speculation meant nothing to her.
“I Was Just Being Honest”
When asked how the now-infamous quote became such a cultural phenomenon, Mariah offered a perfectly Mariah explanation.
“The thing is, I was being honest when I said it,” she said. “I don’t know how it became so big!”
It’s true — the moment dates back to a 2003 interview when Mariah, asked about Jennifer Lopez, simply said, “I don’t know her.” That phrase has since taken on a life of its own, spawning memes, merchandise, and even think pieces about diva diplomacy.
Andy Cohen Has Asked Before
This isn’t the first time Andy’s tried to get to the bottom of it. In 2016, he asked Mariah the same question, and her answer was just as direct.
“Do you know J.Lo at this point?” he asked.
“No,” Mariah replied with her signature poise.
But she went on to make an interesting point about what it really means to “know” someone.
“We’ve maybe spoken a few times. But do you think I know her every waking thought? I don’t. Knowing someone is different than having met them.”
Jennifer Lopez Once Responded — With a Wink
Of course, J.Lo has also addressed the saga herself. Appearing on The Wendy Williams Show in 2016, Jennifer jokingly called Mariah “forgetful” after referencing the comment.
“She does say that — she’s forgetful, I guess,” Jennifer teased. “I don’t know. We’ve met many times, but I don’t know her that well.”
It was the kind of subtle shade only a pop queen could deliver — polite, but pointed.
Mariah’s Clapback Was Pure Comedy Gold
Later that same year, Mariah returned to Watch What Happens Live to play a cheeky game called Does She Know Her?, where Andy listed celebrity names and Mariah had to say if she knew them.
Mariah didn’t miss the opportunity to throw a little glitter back.
“I think you’re forgetting — I’m forgetful, right?” she quipped, grinning. “How am I to know?”
The studio erupted in laughter.
So… Do They Know Each Other Now?
If you’re still wondering whether the two legends have finally become acquainted — the answer remains the same.
“How can I suddenly know?” Mariah reiterated in 2025.
And with that, the pop universe stays perfectly balanced — two icons, two careers, and one unforgettable meme that refuses to die.
Bottom line:
It’s been 22 years, multiple interviews, and countless remixes of “I don’t know her.”
And yet, Mariah Carey still doesn’t — and maybe never will — “know” Jennifer Lopez.
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