Jennifer Lopez Seeks to Restore Maiden Name Amid Divorce from Ben Affleck
Jennifer Lopez is moving to restore her maiden name as her divorce from Ben Affleck progresses. According to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY, Lopez, who has been legally known as Jennifer Lynn Affleck since her marriage to the actor in 2022, filed a petition to revert to her original name, Jennifer Lynn Lopez.
The 55-year-old singer and actress filed for divorce in Los Angeles on Tuesday, which coincided with the second anniversary of their wedding ceremony held at Affleck’s estate near Savannah, Georgia. The filing states that the couple was married on July 16, 2022, in a Las Vegas wedding chapel and separated on April 26. Lopez cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the divorce and requested that neither party be awarded spousal support. Additionally, Lopez asked that each party be responsible for their own attorney’s fees.
A Brief History of Bennifer
Lopez and Affleck’s relationship has been a rollercoaster that has captured public attention for two decades. The pair first met in 2002 on the set of the romantic comedy “Gigli” while Lopez was married to her second husband, Cris Judd. They quickly became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about couples, earning the nickname “Bennifer.” They were first engaged in 2002 but called off their engagement in January 2004, citing intense media scrutiny as a factor in their decision. After their initial split, both stars moved on to other high-profile relationships—Lopez with Marc Anthony and later Alex Rodriguez, and Affleck with Jennifer Garner.
However, in 2021, nearly two decades after their first romance ended, Lopez and Affleck rekindled their relationship. They were spotted together frequently, sparking rumors of a reconciliation, which were confirmed when Lopez made their relationship “Instagram official” on her 52nd birthday in July 2021. Their rekindled romance culminated in a Las Vegas wedding in July 2022, followed by a more elaborate celebration with family and friends at Affleck’s Georgia estate. Despite the joyous start, the marriage lasted just two years.
Why Lopez Took Affleck’s Last Name
Lopez’s decision to take Affleck’s last name, even after their long and tumultuous history, was a point of discussion and curiosity among fans and media. In a 2022 interview with Vogue, Lopez addressed her decision, emphasizing the symbolic significance of sharing a surname. “People are still going to call me Jennifer Lopez. But my legal name will be Mrs. Affleck because we’re joined together,” she explained. “We’re husband and wife. I’m proud of that. I don’t think that’s a problem.”
Lopez acknowledged that while some may have their own opinions about the tradition, she viewed the gesture as romantic and symbolic of their union. She dismissed the idea of Affleck adopting her surname, noting that it didn’t fit traditional norms and lacked the romantic sentiment she cherished.
Moving Forward
This is Lopez’s fourth marriage and Affleck’s second, marking yet another chapter in both of their personal lives. Their divorce comes after months of speculation as fans noticed both celebrities making more solo appearances in public. Despite the end of their marriage, both Lopez and Affleck have demonstrated resilience in their personal lives and careers, suggesting they will continue to thrive individually.
With Lopez’s request to restore her maiden name, she reclaims an identity that has been synonymous with her success as a global entertainment icon. Known for her hit songs, blockbuster films, and business ventures, Lopez’s name carries significant weight in the entertainment industry. As she moves forward, Lopez’s decision to return to her maiden name symbolizes a fresh start, allowing her to embrace her individuality once again.
Lopez’s latest legal move also underlines the evolving nature of celebrity relationships in the public eye. While fans may continue to be fascinated by the highs and lows of her personal life, Lopez’s decision to return to the name under which she built her career is a powerful statement of self-empowerment and continuity.
