Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck part ways after two years of marriage
A love story rekindled and extinguished
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, the iconic duo once known as “Bennifer,” have decided to end their marriage after just over two years. Lopez filed for divorce on Tuesday, August 20, in L.A. County Superior Court, with the official separation date listed as April 26.
The couple, who first captured the public’s imagination in the early 2000s, rekindled their romance and tied the knot in Las Vegas in July 2022. Their love story, which had been a tabloid sensation two decades ago, seemed to have found a second wind. They celebrated their union with a grand ceremony in Georgia on August 20, 2022, exactly two years ago.
A cinematic journey together
Lopez and Affleck’s relationship was not just a personal affair but also a professional collaboration. They starred together in two films: the 2003 romantic caper “Gigli” and the 2004 comedy “Jersey Girl.” While “Gigli” was largely panned by critics, “Jersey Girl” offered a glimpse into their on-screen chemistry. However, by the time “Jersey Girl” hit theaters, their engagement had already been called off, and they had gone their separate ways.
Gigli
Jersey Girl
Separate paths and new beginnings
In the years that followed their initial breakup, both Lopez and Affleck moved on to other relationships. Lopez married and later divorced Marc Anthony, while Affleck married and divorced Jennifer Garner. Despite their separate paths, fate brought them back together roughly three years ago, reigniting their romance.
Lopez kept her fans updated on their relationship through her social media presence and newsletter. She also addressed their relationship in her most recent album, “This Is Me … Now,” a sequel to her 2002 album “This Is Me … Then,” which also delved into her relationship with Affleck.
This Is Me … Now
A love story on screen
Affleck made a notable appearance in Lopez’s “This Is Me … Now: A Love Story,” a 65-minute film released on Prime Video in February. The film, which features music from Lopez’s new album, includes Affleck in prosthetic make-up playing a wizened but jaded anchorman. Their collaboration extended beyond the screen, as they made regular appearances on the promotional circuit for each other’s projects.
This Is Me … Now: A Love Story
Public appearances and professional support
During their second relationship and marriage, Lopez and Affleck were often seen supporting each other at various events. They walked the red carpets together for projects like “The Mother,” “Air,” “The Last Duel,” and “Marry Me.” Their presence at the Golden Globes earlier this year was a testament to their mutual support and admiration.
The Mother
Air
The Last Duel
Marry Me
A pause for personal time
In May, Lopez made the decision to cancel her summer “This Is Me… Now” tour, citing the need to spend time with her children, family, and close friends. This move highlighted her commitment to her personal life amidst the whirlwind of her professional career.
This Is Me… Now Tour
Reflecting on a storied romance
The end of Lopez and Affleck’s marriage marks the close of a chapter in a love story that has captivated fans for decades. Their journey together, filled with highs and lows, has been a testament to the complexities of love and relationships in the public eye. As they move forward separately, their shared history will undoubtedly remain a significant part of their individual narratives.
For cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts, the tale of “Bennifer” offers a rich tapestry of personal and professional intersections. Their story serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love, even when it doesn’t lead to a happily ever after.