Jennifer Lopez revealed in a CBS Sunday Morning interview, which aired on September 28, 2025, that her divorce from Ben Affleck was “the best thing that ever happened to me.” The 56-year-old singer and actress explained that the split helped her grow personally and become more self-aware during one of the most challenging periods of her life.
Lopez filed for divorce from Affleck in August 2024, citing irreconcilable differences on what would have been their second wedding anniversary. The couple finalized their divorce in January 2025, marking the end of their rekindled romance that began in 2021 and led to marriage in July 2022.
During the CBS interview, Lopez acknowledged that the timing of their separation created significant challenges while she was filming “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” a musical adaptation in which she stars as fictional movie star Ingrid Luna. The actress described the period as particularly difficult, explaining that she experienced contrasting emotions between her professional and personal life.
Lopez indicated that every moment on set brought her happiness while performing the role, but returning home presented a stark contrast where things were not going well. She reflected on the internal struggle of reconciling these opposing experiences during such a turbulent time in her personal life.
Despite the challenges, Lopez emphasized that the divorce ultimately contributed to her personal development. She noted that the experience changed her and helped her grow in ways she needed, making her more self-aware and transforming her into a different person than she was the previous year.
The summer following their separation proved to be transformative for Lopez, who described it as probably the best summer she had ever experienced. She shared that she had considerable fun and developed a greater ability to enjoy life’s moments, finding joy in living and embracing everything life brings.
Lopez expressed a philosophical perspective on adversity, explaining that hard times serve as lessons that must be understood. She noted that once this understanding is achieved, everything becomes lighter and allows a person to truly flourish. The actress emphasized that without experiencing the divorce, she would not have gained this important insight.
Remarkably, Affleck played a crucial role in making “Kiss of the Spider Woman” possible through his production company Artists Equity, which he founded with Matt Damon. Lopez acknowledged that the movie would not have been made without Affleck and his company’s financial backing, stating she would always give him credit for his support.
The actress recalled telling Affleck that this was the role she was born to play and expressing her desire to pursue it. She noted that he responded positively and helped make the project happen by providing the necessary financing through Artists Equity.
The couple’s relationship history spans more than two decades, having first dated and become engaged in 2002 before separating in 2004 amid intense media scrutiny. During their time apart, Affleck married Jennifer Garner in 2005 and had three children before divorcing in 2018, while Lopez married Marc Anthony in 2004 and had twins before their separation in 2014.
“Kiss of the Spider Woman,” directed by Bill Condon, is adapted from the Tony Award-winning musical based on Manuel Puig’s 1976 novel. The film also stars Diego Luna as a political prisoner during Argentina’s civil war and newcomer Tonatiuh Elizarraraz as his cellmate who recounts stories about Lopez’s character, a classic screen actress.
The movie premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2025, the same month Lopez finalized her divorce from Affleck. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on October 10, 2025, and has generated early Oscar buzz for Lopez’s performance.
Regarding awards recognition, Lopez maintained a measured perspective, explaining that while recognition for work people love is meaningful, she does not need acclaim in the way she might have when younger. She acknowledged that while everyone desires recognition and the opportunity to express gratitude, her priorities have shifted.
The divorce settlement details have remained largely private, though reports indicate each party will keep what they earned during their marriage. The couple, who married without a prenuptial agreement, also reached an arrangement regarding their $61 million Beverly Hills mansion, though specific details have not been publicly disclosed. Lopez officially dropped “Affleck” from her legal name when the divorce was finalized.
