Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 11, 2024 7:10 pm GMT
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck were seen together for the first time since their recent separation, sparking interest after the singer filed for divorce on August 20. The couple was photographed at The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles on September 14, enjoying lunch with their children.
Public Appearance at Beverly Hills Hotel
As the high-profile former couple entered the hotel together, they were accompanied by their kids. Lopez, 55, sported a casual yet stylish outfit consisting of a long-sleeved black turtleneck crop top and high-waisted dark wash jeans. She accessorized with aviator sunglasses and a brown snakeskin handbag. Affleck, 52, opted for a more laid-back look, donning a blue button-up shirt over a gray T-shirt, paired with light blue jeans and sneakers.
The outing was noteworthy not only for its timing, as it followed the divorce filing on the couple’s second wedding anniversary, but also for the apparent amicability between Lopez and Affleck. Celebrity-focused Instagram account DeuxMoi shared images from their outing, highlighting the couple’s interactions as they walked into the venue side by side.
Context of the Divorce Filing
Lopez filed for divorce nearly two years after they married in a surprise Las Vegas ceremony in July 2022, which followed their high-profile relationship from the early 2000s. The couple briefly got engaged in 2002 but called off their wedding a year later, leading to their split in January 2004. It wasn’t until 2021 that they rekindled their romance, culminating in their recent marriage.
Lopez’s filing lists the couple’s date of separation as April 26, coinciding with growing speculation regarding the status of their marriage. Reports suggest that in the days leading up to Lopez’s filing, there were rumors about Affleck possibly dating Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s daughter, Kathleen “Kick” Kennedy. However, Affleck’s representative has since denied these claims and asserted that he is not currently dating anyone.
Lopez’s Public Remarks
Although Lopez has not made any formal statements regarding her decision to file for divorce, she was overheard expressing concerns about her relationship choices during a promotional event for her film “Unstoppable” at the Toronto International Film Festival. Footage shows her telling actor Bobby Cannavale that she viewed herself as “a bad picker,” a remark that has drawn attention in the wake of her divorce announcement.
Lopez was seen promoting “Unstoppable” just days before the Beverly Hills outing, highlighting the former couple’s professional affiliations in addition to their familial bonds.
Recent Professional Engagements
Affleck and Lopez have both been busy with their respective careers since the announcement of their separation. Lopez received attention at the Toronto International Film Festival, where she showcased her enchanting style in a metallic gown while attending the premiere of “Unstoppable.” This project represents a significant collaboration, as it was produced by Artists Equity, the production company Affleck co-founded with Matt Damon.
The couple’s previous joint appearances included their red carpet moment in February 2023, where they promoted Lopez’s music project “This Is Me … Now: A Love Story.” There has been some speculation regarding how their professional lives may continue to intersect despite the personal split.
Looking Ahead
As both Lopez and Affleck navigate their newfound single statuses, it remains to be seen how they will continue to balance their family dynamics with their careers. Observers are keen to see if this latest round of public appearances will mark a new stage in their relationship, especially since their family outing was characterized by a sense of unity despite the divorce.
In the entertainment industry, both stars have shown resilience and the ability to remain focused on their projects, even amid personal challenges. Lopez and Affleck’s shared commitment to their children may play a significant role in how they move forward post-divorce.
People will definitely be watching to see how they get along as co-parents in the coming months. Fans and the media are curious about what they will do next in their family life and their growing careers.
