As rumors of a potential split between Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck gain traction, sources close to the couple suggest that the tension is palpable, with Lopez's inner circle reportedly expressing relief at the prospect of a breakup. According to insiders, Affleck, who was never fully embraced by Lopez's trusted confidants, has become a source of frustration for those closest to the superstar.
A source familiar with the situation revealed that the relationship between Affleck and Lopez's friends has always been strained. "No one, except Lopez's mother, likes Ben Affleck. He's a triple-A a-hole," the insider claimed, adding that even Lopez's longtime manager, Benny Medina, has had a tumultuous relationship with the actor. Medina, who played a pivotal role in Lopez's rise to stardom, is said to have clashed with Affleck, with the two reportedly harboring "bad blood" since the early 2000s.
Affleck and Lopez first became an item in the early 2000s, a time when Affleck reportedly influenced Lopez's decision to part ways with Medina. The couple eventually called off their engagement in 2004, and Lopez subsequently rehired Medina, who has remained a key figure in her professional life ever since. Despite their past disagreements, Medina has kept a low profile regarding Bennifer 2.0. "This time around, Medina kept his mouth shut about their rekindled romance and marriage," a source told Page Six, noting that Medina neither supported nor criticized the relationship publicly.
Affleck's attitude and behavior have also reportedly strained his friendships, as the actor's circle has noticed a shift in his demeanor. "He was such a happy guy for all of 2023, but this year has been a completely different animal!" said a source. The insider suggested that Affleck's demanding work schedule and ongoing marital issues have contributed to his "nasty attitude" and made him "miserable to be around."
The tension between Lopez and Affleck reportedly became evident to the public in May when Affleck was seen without his wedding band. Although the couple has not confirmed any rumors of a divorce, multiple sources have hinted that their marriage may be on shaky ground. The actor has allegedly been resistant to attempts by friends to help him out of his "funk," further fueling speculation that the couple is headed for a split.
Despite the growing tension, Affleck and Lopez will soon have to put their differences aside to promote their upcoming film Unstoppable. The movie, set to premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, will require both stars to present a united front, even as rumors about their personal lives continue to swirl.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the reported fallout between Lopez and her longtime friend Leah Remini. Sources suggest that Remini, who became close with Lopez through her ex-husband Marc Anthony, had expressed concerns about Lopez rekindling her relationship with Affleck. "Remini encouraged Lopez to think about the reason they broke up in the first place before she jumped back on the love boat with the 'Gone Girl' star," a source said. This advice reportedly led to a rift between the two friends, with Lopez cutting off ties with Remini at one point.
However, it appears that Lopez and Remini have since reconciled, with Remini offering support amid the ongoing marital drama. "They reconnected this year, and Remini has been there for Lopez during this difficult time," the source added.
As the public awaits further developments, insiders speculate that Affleck's reluctance to initiate a divorce may be due to a desire to avoid further humiliation for Lopez. However, some believe it may be too late to salvage their relationship. "She's furious. He has humiliated her. He was the one who initiated getting back together," a source previously told Page Six.
While the couple has not made any official statements, the strain in their marriage is evident to those close to them. "This was definitely not on her bingo card. She would've scratched someone's eyes out if they told her [they're] splitting up less than two years in," the source remarked.
As Lopez and Affleck prepare to navigate both their professional and personal lives in the spotlight, the future of Bennifer 2.0 remains uncertain. For now, the couple appears to be holding on, but only time will tell if they can overcome the growing pressures from both within and outside their relationship.
