Jennifer Lopez - Jennifer Lopez And Eva Longoria Remember Lupe Ontiveros

The veteran Latina, who played convicted killer Yolander Saldivar in the 1997 biopic Selena, lost her battle with liver cancer at the age of 69 and now her movie co-star Lopez has spoken of her sadness at the tragic passing.

A statement released to UsMagazine.com reads: "I am tremendously saddened by the news of Lupe's passing! I've enjoyed her work throughout the years. She was a great actress and working with her in Selena was an unforgettable experience. She will truly be missed."

Longoria, who bonded with Ontiveros when the late star played her on-screen mother-in-law on the set of TV hit Desperate Housewives, has also sent her condolences to the actress' family.

In a Twitter.com post, she writes, "I'm deeply saddened at the news of my dear friend Lupe Ontiveros passing. She was more than a colleague to me, she was my family. My heart is with your family Lupe."