ERICA MENA

First published in our July/August 2006 issue.

Heaven help us if Erica Mena is prone to bitch-fits. Tired of false seductions, the video honey's current mission is clear--to be "the Latina equal to Kimora Lee Simmons." Explains the Boricua-Dominican blend: "Sexy, confident, and making more money than most men." First hypnotizing boob-tubers as the victor of MTV Presents: Wannabe J. Lo, the Bronx native has since worked her way onto director's speed-dials, playing house with 50 Cent ("Candy Shop") and swinging front-seat episodes with Fabolous ("Breathe").

However, like Ms. Lo, Erica, 20, isn't your typical bootyful fly-girl. Next up for the silver screen hopeful: hosting duties on DJ Clue's Behind the Mic pilot--a "Howard Stern-style" radio-meets-television show. Pending a green light, that may be Clue's most celebrated exclusive to date.