After less than two years of marriage, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez are reportedly heading for a divorce. Sources indicate that the couple, who tied the knot nearly two decades after calling off their first planned wedding, are facing irreconcilable differences, . The split comes amidst a backdrop of personal and professional challenges that have strained their relationship to the breaking point.
Marital Strains Emerge
Jennifer Lopez, 54, and Ben Affleck, 51, rekindled their romance in 2021 and married in July 2023. However, the pressures of maintaining a public relationship while juggling their demanding careers have reportedly led to constant clashes. A source close to the couple revealed (via InTouch magazine), "They waited almost two decades to get back together, but in the end, they just couldn't make it work. They both said they'd matured and learned from their mistakes, but some of the bigger issues that tore them apart the first time remained the same."
One of the significant points of contention has been their differing attitudes towards the media spotlight. Lopez thrives in the public eye, while Affleck has struggled with the intense scrutiny. Despite efforts to compromise, the tension has only grown. In a heavily publicized documentary about their romance, Lopez admitted, "I don't think [Ben] is very comfortable with me doing all of this," yet insisted, "he doesn't want to stop me."
Professional and Personal Pressures
Affleck's struggles with sobriety have also been a significant issue. Lopez's launch of an alcohol line, Delola, in April last year was seen as particularly insensitive given Affleck's long battle with addiction. The source explained, "He's managed to stay fully sober, but having alcohol around him is always a bad idea for someone who attends AA meetings. He had to get out of that situation to save himself."
Meanwhile, Lopez has faced professional challenges of her own. Her new album, This Is Me...Now, and a mostly self-funded feature-length film and documentary received tepid reviews. She canceled multiple dates of her first North American tour in five years amid weak ticket sales. "She gambled $20 million of her own money on the movie, and they just bought a $61 million mansion," said the source. "Now she's panicking about ticket sales and is under intense pressure professionally."
Signs of Trouble
Public appearances have often highlighted the couple's strained relationship. Videos of Lopez looking irritated with a seemingly bored Affleck at the 2023 Grammys went viral, and they were seen having a heated discussion at a fine jewelry store in St. Barts over New Year's. These incidents have fueled speculation about the stability of their marriage.
Affleck, despite his aversion to fame, starred in a series of commercials for Dunkin' Donuts, including a Super Bowl ad featuring Lopez. However, these professional collaborations have done little to alleviate the underlying tensions. "Ben would never try to stifle her dreams or tell her she can't do something that advances her career, even though she can be quite controlling of him," noted the source.
Moving Forward
As the couple prepares to part ways, Affleck has reportedly already moved out of their Beverly Hills estate. The sprawling mansion, which they reportedly paid for in cash before taking out a $20 million mortgage, is likely to be sold. "Ben is focusing on his work and his kids now," the source added.
The split is especially bittersweet for Affleck, who has previously expressed regret over the failure of his marriage to Jennifer Garner in 2018. Garner, who has been in a relationship with John Miller for six years, is said to be "incredibly happy" and possibly planning a wedding.
