Recent reports and public incidents hint that their relationship has been on a downward spiral.
The warning signs were there all along—captured in telling photos and awkward moments that fans couldn’t ignore.
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In 2022, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s rekindled romance culminated in a whirlwind engagement and two weddings. The couple, known as “Bennifer,” captured the world’s attention with their passionate reunion after years apart. Yet, despite public displays of affection, there were cracks beneath the surface.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are seen leaving Hôtel de Crillon on July 23, 2022 in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are seen leaving Hôtel de Crillon on July 23, 2022 in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images
The signs of trouble were subtle at first but became increasingly hard to ignore. From public squabbles to somber outings, the couple’s interactions began to raise eyebrows. This disappointed some fans rooting for the couple, but some say they saw it coming.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck on September 26, 2021 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck on September 26, 2021 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
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Is Second Time the Charm?
When Lopez and Affleck rekindled their romance nearly two decades after calling off their first engagement, it felt like a story ripped straight from a Hollywood script.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck share a kiss on their wedding day, posted in August 2023 | Source: Instagram/jlo
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck share a kiss on their wedding day, posted in August 2023 | Source: Instagram/jlo
Their reunion in 2021 brought a sense of nostalgia and hope, not just for the couple but for fans who had followed their journey since the early 2000s.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the “Daredevil” premiere in Los Angeles on February 9, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the “Daredevil” premiere in Los Angeles on February 9, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
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The world watched as “Bennifer” picked up where they left off, and it wasn’t long before they were back in the spotlight, making headlines with their whirlwind engagement in April 2022.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez spotted out in New York on March 30, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez spotted out in New York on March 30, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Their love story seemed destined for a fairytale ending, with two weddings in the same year. In July 2022, they had a private, low-key ceremony in Las Vegas, followed by a more extravagant celebration in Georgia.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the “Marry Me” screening in Los Angeles on February 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the “Marry Me” screening in Los Angeles on February 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
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The second wedding, held at Affleck’s sprawling estate, was a grand affair with the couple surrounded by family, close friends, and Hollywood A-listers. Lopez and Affleck appeared inseparable, exuding the kind of chemistry that had once made them one of Hollywood’s most talked-about couples.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the premiere of “This Is Me…Now: A Love Story” in Hollywood, California on February 13, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the premiere of “This Is Me…Now: A Love Story” in Hollywood, California on February 13, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
But as is often the case, reality can be far less glamorous than the fairytales we imagine. While the world marveled at their romance, close observers noticed that the pressures of their highly public relationship were beginning to take their toll.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck in Los Angeles on April 26, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck in Los Angeles on April 26, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
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As the honeymoon phase began to fade, the first signs that all was not well in the Lopez-Affleck household started to appear. Though the couple tried to maintain a united front in public, subtle—and sometimes not-so-subtle—indications of strain were hard to miss.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
First Tell-Tale Sign: The Car Door Incident
One of the earliest and most telling signs that Lopez and Affleck’s marriage was under strain occurred in May 2023. The couple was out and about in Los Angeles when what should have been a simple outing turned into a public display of tension.
Ben Affleck opens the car door for Jennifer Lopez, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
Ben Affleck opens the car door for Jennifer Lopez, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
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As they returned to their car, Affleck opened the passenger door for Lopez—a seemingly chivalrous act—but the mood quickly soured. Affleck, who appeared visibly stressed, slammed the car door behind Lopez with a force that startled onlookers.
Ben Affleck slams the car door on Jennifer Lopez, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
Ben Affleck slams the car door on Jennifer Lopez, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
This uncharacteristic display of frustration shocked fans and sparked concern about the state of their relationship. Fans and observers were quick to dissect the moment, with many pointing out the apparent tension between the two.
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“Literally the unhappiest, most pressed husband in Hollywood,” commented one user on X, encapsulating the sentiment of many. Others noted that Affleck’s body language and facial expression reflected deeper issues.
Comments like “He always looks like that. It’s his face,” and “He never looks happy” were common threads in discussions about the couple.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@dailymail
The incident was particularly jarring for fans who had previously viewed the couple’s relationship through rose-colored glasses. It raised the first major red flag that their marriage might be in trouble.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez on the red carpet, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez on the red carpet, dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
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Second Tell-Tale Sign: The Awkward Red Carpet Moment
The car door incident wasn’t the only public display that hinted at trouble between Lopez and Affleck. During the same month, the couple made headlines again for another tense moment, this time at the premiere of Lopez’s movie “The Mother” in Los Angeles.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
As they walked the red carpet, what should have been a glamorous and joyful occasion quickly turned into an uncomfortable scene. The couple was captured on video appearing visibly strained as they posed for photographers.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez on the red carpet at the premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez on the red carpet at the premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
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Lopez, dressed to impress for her big night, was seen gesturing to Affleck, seemingly instructing him on where to stand and how to pose. Her expression was serious, almost frustrated, as she tried to direct her husband in front of the cameras.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez talking on the red carpet at the premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez talking on the red carpet at the premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
The exchange was analyzed by a professional lip reader, who suggested that Lopez was asking Affleck whether her low-cut top was “showing too much.” He responded by telling her that it was fine.
Despite their attempts to maintain composure, the tension between them was evident. Additionally, photographers’ shouts and the pressure of the red carpet seemed to heighten the stress.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
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Affleck, looking tense and uncomfortable, was seen trying to reassure his wife by saying, “Don’t worry, babe,” and urging her to come closer to him. Lopez responded with a simple “Come close to me,” before they finally settled into a pose.
However, even as they smiled for the cameras, the strain between them was obvious. Affleck’s final comment, “That’s us done,” seemed to signal his desire to escape the situation as quickly as possible.
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Observers on social media were quick to pick up on the awkwardness. Comments flooded in, with one YouTube user noting, “This marriage will end,” while others pointed out Affleck’s exhausted demeanor.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
“He looks really tired,” one person wrote, while another added, “There’s no love, just momentary passion between them, which is fading away slowly and soon will be news of their divorce.” The general consensus was that their interactions lacked the warmth and affection expected from a couple newly in love.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
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This red carpet moment further fueled speculation that the couple’s marriage was unraveling. What should have been a celebration of Lopez’s latest film instead became another sign that their relationship was under significant strain.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend Netflix’s premiere of “The Mother,” dated May 12, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@theindependent
Third Tell-Tale Sign: The Grammy Awards Incident
As the world continued to watch Lopez and Affleck’s relationship with a mix of fascination and concern, another public incident added fuel to the growing speculation that all was not well between the couple. This time, their tense exchange at the February 2023 Grammy Awards caught everyone’s attention.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
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During the awards show, the cameras captured a tense exchange between the pair that quickly went viral. In the clip, Affleck was seen leaning in to whisper something to Lopez, only to be met with an immediate, sharp reaction.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Lopez appeared to jerk away from him, her face displaying a clear look of frustration. She then seemed to snap at him, prompting Affleck to straighten his posture and adjust his vest, clearly aware that their exchange was being caught on camera.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
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According to lipreaders who analyzed the footage, Lopez was telling Affleck to “Stop! Look more friendly. Look motivated,” and Affleck responded with a curt, “I might.”
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Their expressions noticeably shifted when they realized they were on camera, with Lopez quickly turning her attention to the stage as if nothing had happened, and Affleck attempting to mask his discomfort.
Despite their efforts to play it off, the moment did not go unnoticed. Social media platforms were ablaze with commentary from viewers who had picked up on the tension.
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“This is not a happy couple. They can pretend all they want, after all, they are actors and I say that lightly,” observed one X user. Another pointed out the maternal tone in Lopez’s scolding. They said, “She told him to sit up straight. Like a mom would tell her 10-year-old son.”
The incident led some to speculate whether Affleck was entirely invested in the evening, with one commenter suggesting, “She should’ve left him at home, it’s clearly not his thing and he looks so bored.” Perhaps most tellingly, one user bluntly asked, “Divorce coming?”
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Adding to the intrigue, while Affleck appeared tense in Lopez’s company, he was later seen sharing a lighthearted moment with fellow actor Adrien Brody.
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The stark contrast between his demeanor with Lopez and his relaxed interaction with Brody only served to deepen the public’s curiosity about what might be going on behind the scenes in the couple’s relationship.
Ben Affleck laughs with Adrien Brody at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Ben Affleck laughs with Adrien Brody at the 2023 Grammys, dated February 8, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@EntertainmentTonight
Fourth Tell-Tale Sign: The Somber McDonald’s Trips
As Lopez and Affleck’s marriage continued to unravel in the public eye, yet another set of incidents further fueled speculation that their relationship was on the rocks.
In October 2023, the couple was repeatedly spotted visiting McDonald’s—a seemingly innocuous activity that, given Lopez’s well-known commitment to a strict diet, quickly raised eyebrows.
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Lopez, who has long been admired for her discipline in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, typically avoids processed foods and adheres to a clean, organic diet.
Her trainer, Tracy Anderson, once described Lopez’s eating habits, emphasizing that “everything is fresh,” and that there’s “nothing processed.” Given this, it was particularly surprising to see Lopez accompanying Affleck on not one but four trips to the fast-food chain in the span of a month.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez make a stop at McDonalds, dated October 19, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@x17online
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez make a stop at McDonalds, dated October 19, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@x17online
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During these outings, Lopez’s expression was often one of displeasure, further hinting at underlying issues between the couple. On one such occasion, Lopez was photographed looking visibly unhappy as she waited in the car while Affleck picked up a bag of food and a soda.
Dressed in an orange hoodie and gold-rimmed shades, Lopez’s usual glamour seemed at odds with the setting, and her mood appeared equally out of place.
Affleck also looked pensive as he returned to the car with their order. Clad in a cream sweater and tan sweatpants, he seemed a far cry from the confident, charismatic actor the public was used to seeing on the big screen. The somber nature of these outings did not go unnoticed by fans, who quickly took to social media to voice their concerns.
On X, one user commented, “She’s a grown adult she could have said no.” On YouTube, a user stated, “McDonald’s won’t save this sinking marriage lol. They’ve already split,” while another noted, “They always look annoyed.”
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Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez make a stop at McDonalds, dated October 19, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@x17online
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez make a stop at McDonalds, dated October 19, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@x17online
Others observed that Affleck seemed increasingly unhappy in recent months, with one user stating, “Ben looks miserable more and more lately. Ben acts like his life is hell every day he’s with JLo.” These comments reflected a growing belief that the couple’s marriage was not only troubled but perhaps already on the verge of collapse.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez make a stop at McDonalds, dated October 19, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@x17online
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez make a stop at McDonalds, dated October 19, 2023 | Source: YouTube/@x17online
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For a couple that once seemed so in love, these McDonald’s trips were jarring to witness. They served as yet another public display of the tensions that had been simmering behind the scenes.
The contrast between Lopez’s carefully curated public image and the reality of these outings was stark, leading many to conclude that their relationship was headed for an inevitable end.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the premiere of “AIR” on March 27, 2023 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck at the premiere of “AIR” on March 27, 2023 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
The Climax: The Inevitable End
As the months passed, the signs of trouble between Lopez and Affleck continued to mount, leading many to wonder when—not if—their marriage would come to an end.
The answer came on August 20, 2024, a date filled with irony and symbolism, as Lopez officially filed for divorce. This date marked exactly two years since the couple’s grand, traditional wedding ceremony in Georgia, an event that had been widely celebrated as the ultimate confirmation of their rekindled love.
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The decision to file for divorce on this specific date was seen by many as a deliberate and symbolic gesture. It was as if Lopez was closing the chapter on a relationship that had once seemed destined for a fairy-tale ending but had instead become a source of heartbreak and disillusionment.
The fact that she filed without a lawyer, representing herself in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, further underscored the personal nature of her decision.
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One of the most shocking aspects of the divorce filing was the revelation that there was no prenuptial agreement in place. Despite this being Lopez’s fourth marriage and Affleck’s second, the couple had chosen to forgo a prenup.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck photographed on April 23, 2022 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck photographed on April 23, 2022 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
This decision now meant that any earnings or profits made during their nearly two-year marriage would be considered community property and would most likely be divided equally between them.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend the screening of “The Last Duel” on September 10, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez attend the screening of “The Last Duel” on September 10, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
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For Affleck, this included his starring roles in films like “Air” and “Hypnotic,” as well as his work as a producer on “The Instigators.” He had also just wrapped filming “The Accountant 2” shortly before the divorce filing.
Ben Affleck walks as two men film him in Los Angeles on May 19, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck walks as two men film him in Los Angeles on May 19, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Lopez, on the other hand, had several high-profile projects during their marriage, including “Shotgun Wedding,” “The Mother,” and “This Is Me… Now,” as well as the upcoming film “Atlas.”
The lack of a prenuptial agreement was particularly surprising given the couple’s considerable individual wealth and their history in the public eye.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the 81st Golden Globe Awards on January 7, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the 81st Golden Globe Awards on January 7, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images
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Many have speculated that their decision to forgo legal protection stemmed from a genuine belief that their love would stand the test of time—a belief that, unfortunately, proved to be misplaced.
Ben Affleck poses with Jennifer Lopez at the “Marry Me” screening in Los Angeles on February 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck poses with Jennifer Lopez at the “Marry Me” screening in Los Angeles on February 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
As news of the divorce spread, fans and media alike are reflecting on the tell-tale signs that had been there all along. From the car door incident to the tense red carpet moments and the somber McDonald’s trips, it was clear in hindsight that Lopez and Affleck’s marriage had been struggling for some time.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck seen house hunting on April 17, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck seen house hunting on April 17, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The finality of the divorce filing, particularly on such a significant date, marked the end of a love story that had once captured the world’s imagination but ultimately could not withstand the pressures of life in the spotlight.
