When Bruno Mars won the Grammy for Best Pop Vocal, he told his girlfriend Jessica Caban that he loved her. But when Mars dedicated the award to his late mother, the camera caught Jessica’s expression, which was a frown.
Here’s all you need to know about 30-year-old dancer, model and actress who caused a Grammy stir. Hopefully she doesn’t make any waves at the Super Bowl, where her boyfriend is headlining the halftime show.
1. Her Grammy Gaffe Put Her on Twitter’s Sh*t List
Mars’ mother died at age 55 after a brain aneurysm. Jessica, also known by the nickname Vacaban, won some enemies after that look:
More priceless moments from the Grammys. See Bruno Mars' girlfriend's reaction when he dedicated his award to his mom http://t.co/SqA5xbRfUu
— Alanna Glicksman (@aglicksman) January 27, 2014
To Bruno Mars' girlfriend who frowned when he dedicated his Grammy to his mom, you do not deserve to be any decent man's girlfriend.
— Gwendolyn Ann (@gwenaerys) January 27, 2014
2. She Starred in Mars’ ‘Whatta Man’ Parody Video
In the Funny or Die clip, obviously a play on Mars’ sensitive songs that give him a “perfect man” status, Jessica has the role of leading lady. Set to Salt N Pepa’s hit “Whatta Man,” the video shows Mars in situations like getting up in the morning already dressed in a tux. There’s a scene where Mars brings Jessica roses and then defends her against a gunman. When Jessica turns the gun on Bruno, he distracts her with a passionate kiss. At the end of the clip, he saves a pregnant Jessica from a burning building.
Jessica shared the link on her Facebook fan page.
3. Jennifer Lopez Picked Jessica to Compete in a Modeling Competition
In a nationwide search, JLo chose Jessica to represent New York in a competition to model her clothing line. Although Jessica didn’t win, she was one of the six finalists.
The group got to spend a day with Lopez in Manhattan.
She was so much fun. She helped us get our nails done, our hair done, and pick out our clothes. “We sang and listened to music with her for hours. It was like a dream.
4. She Was Raised in Manhattan & Lives With Mars in L.A.
@BrunoMars and his girlfriend Jessica at the #GRAMMYs pic.twitter.com/kBeZE6OhXz
— lets go Bruno!!! (@PaolaPrado1406) January 27, 2014
She’s from Spanish Harlem in New York City. Celebuzz reported that Caban moved into Mars’ $3 million L.A. home.
The couple started dating in 2011.
5. She Was the First Model Latina
Model Latina is the first-ever reality competition show for aspiring latina models.
In 2008, Jessica won the contest, up against models from all over the country. The prize included $10,000, a modeling contract with Q Management, and a feature in Latina magazine. The show was televised and Jessica came back later as a guest judge.