Jennifer Lopez has officially filed for divorce from Ben Affleck, according to reports from US media outlets on August 20. This legal move comes two years after the high-profile couple, famously dubbed "Bennifer," rekindled their romance and tied the knot.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck File for Divorce
Lopez, 55, filed the divorce papers at a Los Angeles court, with Variety and TMZ confirming the news. The couple, who were first engaged in the early 2000s, had reconnected nearly two decades later. Despite their efforts to make their relationship work, Lopez and Affleck are now parting ways. The couple's date of separation is listed as April 26, 2024. Lopez, who is representing herself in the proceedings, did not use a lawyer. Affleck’s representative has yet to comment on the situation.
Why Jennifer Lopez Is Skipping a Lawyer for Her Divorce
According to Joe and Cheryl Dillon, relationship experts from Equitable Mediation, a lawyer is not strictly necessary for divorce proceedings in the United States. They suggested that Lopez might have chosen to forego legal representation because there was nothing to argue.
In a statement to The Mirror, Joe and Cheryl Dillon noted, “Many people are unaware that a lawyer is not required for divorce in the US While some opt for legal counsel, there are other avenues, such as mediation, available. Lopez might have felt there was nothing to dispute, thus choosing not to involve attorneys.”
The Dillons also pointed out that if any disputes arose, they could be addressed with the help of a neutral mediator. "Once an agreement is reached with the mediator, both parties can have their respective attorneys review it if they choose. Jennifer’s choice not to involve attorneys reflects her personal decision," they concluded.
A Timeline of Bennifer
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck first met in 2002 on the set of the film Gigli. Their relationship quickly became a media sensation, leading to an engagement announcement. However, they postponed their wedding in 2003 and ended their relationship in early 2004. Both stars moved on to other relationships—Lopez with Marc Anthony and Affleck with Jennifer Garner—before reconciling in 2021.
The public's fascination with Bennifer reignited when photos of the pair together started circulating in 2021. They confirmed their renewed relationship with affectionate displays and public outings, including a notable kiss during a gym session in Miami. In April 2022, they announced their engagement once again, followed by a spontaneous wedding in Las Vegas in July. They later held a grander celebration at Affleck’s estate in Georgia in August.
Despite their efforts to maintain a low profile, rumours of trouble in paradise began to surface earlier this year. Lopez cancelled her summer tour to focus on her family, which fuelled speculation about their relationship.
In August, Lopez hosted a Bridgerton-themed birthday party in the Hamptons, where Affleck was notably absent. Shortly after, it was reported that Affleck purchased a $20 million home in Los Angeles for himself, while Lopez listed their Beverly Hills property for $68 million.
Moreover, Jennifer Lopez was previously married to actor Ojani Noa, dancer Cris Judd, and singer Marc Anthony, with whom she has twins, Max and Emme. On the other hand, Ben Affleck's previous marriage was to actress Jennifer Garner, and they have three children together: Violet, Seraphina, and Samuel.
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