Despite their ongoing divorce proceedings, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez continue to capture public attention with their undeniable chemistry. The estranged couple, who filed for divorce just two years after rekindling their romance, were recently spotted sharing a cozy brunch at the Beverly Hills Hotel, sparking speculation about their relationship status.
During the brunch, Affleck, who reportedly initiated the outing, appeared unable to resist his estranged wife. According to a source (via Page Six) close to the couple, "Ben couldn't keep his hands off Jennifer," suggesting that the pair's attraction to one another remains strong despite their separation. The source added, "They have always had a lot of sexual chemistry. That was not planned. They are still attracted to one another."
The couple's children, who have remained close despite their parents' separation, were also present at the brunch. However, they sat at a separate table, allowing Affleck and Lopez to engage in what appeared to be an intense conversation. The insider noted that Affleck's motivation for the public meetup was to demonstrate that he and Lopez are still on friendly terms, even as they move forward with their divorce.
"It was Ben's idea to meet at the Beverly Hills Hotel," the source explained. "He wanted to show that they are friendly exes, and it was also an opportunity to be photographed together." The hotel, known for its celebrity clientele, provided the perfect backdrop for a paparazzi-filled outing, which seemed to be part of Affleck's plan.
Despite the apparent warmth between the two, sources close to the couple have clarified that the brunch does not signal a reconciliation. "Jennifer is trying to be friendly with Ben, but they are still moving forward with the divorce," a source told People. The couple, who rekindled their romance in 2021 after nearly two decades apart, cited "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for their split when Lopez filed for divorce last month.
Adding a layer of symbolism to the brunch, Lopez was seen wearing her engagement ring on her pinky finger and a "Jennifer" ring on her wedding finger. The lack of a prenuptial agreement has reportedly made the divorce process more complicated, particularly regarding financial arrangements.
Lopez and Affleck's divorce, though moving forward, is being handled with care, particularly concerning their children. "A divorce is never easy, but Jennifer doesn't want to be selfish about it," the source emphasized. "The kids always got along and have fun together. It makes her happy seeing the kids happy together. Happy kids are her priority."
As Affleck and Lopez navigate their separation, both remain optimistic about the future. Affleck, who recently purchased a $20.5 million home, is reportedly "doing well" and focusing on the positives in his life. Meanwhile, Lopez, though feeling "some bitterness" about the split, is determined to maintain a positive outlook. "She tried so hard to make things work, but it didn't matter to Ben," a source close to Lopez said. "She's surrounded by family, friends, and her kids, and she always finds a way to move forward."
Lopez's ex-husband, Ojani Noa, also weighed in on the situation, advising Lopez to "stay single for a while" and "take 12 months off" before entering another relationship. Noa suggested that Lopez might benefit from keeping her next relationship private, should she decide to date again.
