Hollywood actress and pop singer Jennifer Lopez tops People’s magazine’s annual list of the most beautiful people of 2011.

“Rarely am I left speechless, but I feel honoured,” said J-Lo, 41, who is the mother of twin toddlers with husband Latin music crooner Marc Anthony.

After taking time off to become a mother, the Bronx, New York-born, Puerto Rican actress returned to the public eye earlier this year with a star turn as of three talent judges on American Idol.

The hit television show searches for the next up-and-coming US pop music celebrity. Ms Lopez admitted to People that looking glamorous day in, day out takes considerable effort, especially since she is constantly in front of the camera.

“I don’t want anybody thinking it’s easy. It does take time and it’s hard work. HDTV wide-screen is nobody’s friend!” she told the magazine.

Also making the list were film stars Reese Witherspoon, Mandy Moore, Eva Longoria and actress-singer Jennifer Hudson.

Among the men on the list were Canada-born film actor Ryan Reynolds and Hollywood hunk Zac Efron.