Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are reportedly at a crossroads over expanding their blended family. Sources close to the couple have revealed that Lopez is keen on having a child with Affleck, but the actor is hesitant, feeling the weight of his age.
Lopez, the dynamic 54-year-old entertainer, has allegedly been clear about her desire to have a child with Affleck since before they rekindled their relationship and finally tied the knot in 2022. "Baby Bennifer has always been a part of J.Lo's plan," a source shared, via Globe magazine. There's speculation that, given her age, Lopez might consider using a surrogate, but the star, known for her vitality and health, hasn't ruled out carrying the child herself.
Initially, it seemed both were on board with the idea of adding to their family. However, Affleck, 51, who already has three children with ex-wife Jennifer Garner, reportedly had a change of heart. "Ben did a 180 and started throwing up all these roadblocks," a tipster revealed. This shift has supposedly placed a strain on their marriage, which has already navigated its fair share of public scrutiny and personal upheaval.
The issue of surrogacy, in particular, has been a contentious one. Affleck, who has experienced the joys and challenges of parenting, is said to be apprehensive about embarking on the journey of fatherhood again in his fifties. "Ben, who has two teenagers and a tween with ex-wife Jennifer Garner, started facing up to the reality of having a baby at his age and is now saying he's just too old," the source mentioned.
Lopez's determination to expand their family is seen by some as a symbol of their renewed love and commitment. However, the ongoing disagreements and the pressure of making such a life-changing decision are taking a toll. "It would be one thing if J.Lo was making it smooth and easy, but that's just not her style," the insider noted, hinting at the intensity and passion Lopez brings to all aspects of her life.
As they navigate these personal challenges, the couple's journey is under the relentless gaze of public and media scrutiny, adding an extra layer of complexity to their situation. Whether they'll find a way through this impasse remains to be seen, but for now, Lopez and Affleck are in the midst of a very human dilemma, balancing love, family, and personal desires against the backdrop of their extraordinary lives.
How Lopez's Influence Is Impacting Affleck and Damon's Friendship
According to sources, the dynamics of this friendship have experienced tension due to Jennifer Lopez's influence on Affleck post their nuptials last year. The situation has reportedly escalated to a point where Damon is finding it increasingly challenging to stay silent.
"Matt has had serious reservations about Bennifer 2.0 from the beginning," a source revealed to the National Enquirer. Despite Damon's efforts to publicly support his friend, he allegedly "hates the way JLo treats his friend" and is concerned about Affleck becoming "a brainwashed robot" under her control. Lopez and Affleck's relationship has been under the microscope, with insiders suggesting that Lopez's "overly controlling ways" have been causing friction between the couple.
The strain in Affleck and Damon's friendship is not a new phenomenon. "It feels like history is repeating itself because 20 years ago they stopped talking to each other for the exact same reason," the source mentioned, hinting at a recurring pattern whenever Lopez is in Affleck's life. Damon's concern for his friend's well-being and autonomy appears to be at the heart of the matter. "Seeing his friend posing on a red carpet, totally playing this role as JLo's arm candy, makes Matt nauseous," the insider stated, emphasizing the emotional toll it's taking on Damon.
As Damon reportedly attempted to intervene by offering advice to Affleck, it led to further complications. Affleck, caught between his loyalty to his wife and his long-standing friendship with Damon, has found himself in a delicate position. "Their friendship is strained, to say the least," the source added, suggesting that the bond between the two actors is under significant pressure.
The crux of the matter seems to revolve around differing lifestyles and coping mechanisms. While Lopez is grateful for Affleck's sobriety and supportive if smoking helps him maintain it, Damon's concern lies with his friend's overall autonomy and happiness. As these Hollywood heavyweights navigate their personal and public lives, the balance between friendship, love, and self-care remains a precarious one.
