In terms of captivating sagas, Greek mythology pales in comparison to the legendary narrative of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, who eventually proceeded with divorce in August following a cancelled engagement, numerous years of friendship, a resurgence, a second proposal, a Vegas ceremony, and subsequently a grander celebration in Georgia. (If you were curious: indeed, I could recount all of that from memory.) Presently, Lopez has spoken for the first time about the implications of her second breakup with Affleck, sharing with comedian Nikki Glaser in Interview magazine: “Being in a partnership doesn’t define me. I can’t seek happiness through others. I must find contentment within myself. I used to claim I’m a happy individual but was still searching for something for someone else to complete, and it’s just like, ‘No, I’m actually fine.’” Later, when Glaser inquired if Lopez had established a “new benchmark for the next person that comes along,” Lopez responded, “Here’s the thing: There isn’t a new standard because I am not seeking anyone.”
Lopez also alluded to her remarkable, white-pants-and-bicycle-ride-rich Nancy Meyers girl summer in the Hamptons during the discussion, stating: “This summer, I had to assert, ‘I need time to be on my own. I wish to demonstrate to myself that I can achieve that.’” Although valuable, Lopez conceded that the experience was also “fucking hard.” (Truly relatable, Jen; even if you’re genuinely and sincerely savoring solitude, it’s entirely usual to sometimes succumb to tears when the smoke detector is beeping, and you have no clue how to silence it.)
While Affleck has been occupied altering his beard color and trying out faux hawks (no judgment: post-breakup transformations—breakovers?—are quite genuine, irrespective of gender), it’s reassuring to learn that the newly separated celebs remain amicable enough to spend time with each other’s children and former partners on occasion. Not to show partiality (I cherish all my parasocial celebrity interactions equally!), but I absolutely appreciate hearing that Lopez is on the path to healing and embracing her solitude to some extent. After all, how will Ben and Jen ever arrive at Engagement #3 if they don’t dedicate some time apart to rediscover themselves?