In a candid conversation with Nikki Glaser for Interview Magazine, Jennifer Lopez opened up about her feelings following her much-publicized divorce from Ben Affleck.
The split, which has been a hot topic in pop culture since its announcement, has left many wondering how the star is coping.
Surprisingly, Lopez shared her thoughts on the matter sooner than many anticipated.
Lopez reflected on her life at this juncture, admitting that things didn’t unfold the way she envisioned.
“I was thinking about this time in my life, and I’m like, that’s not what I thought it was going to turn out like,” she told Glaser.
However, she emphasized that this unexpected turn has ultimately guided her toward her true path.
“No, this is precisely where I needed to be, to lead me to where I want to go,” she added.
As their conversation progressed, Glaser hinted at the emotional turmoil surrounding Lopez’s divorce, prompting a discussion about regrets.
Lopez was quick to dismiss any notions of regret, stating firmly, “Not a second.” Yet, she acknowledged the pain she endured during the process.
“It nearly did [take me out],” she confessed, but now she sees the experience as a necessary lesson.
“God, thank you, I apologize for the delay,” she said, adding that she wished she had learned from her past mistakes sooner.
Lopez went on to express her newfound independence.
“Yes, I’m not looking for anyone because, when I’m flying by myself, I can’t do anything about everything I’ve done over the past 25, 30 years,” she explained.
This sense of self-discovery seems to be empowering her as she embraces this chapter of her life.
The singer and actress also shared her optimistic outlook on life.
“That, I believe, is what I adore about life, that there is no destination,” she noted.
Instead of focusing on a final goal, she believes in the importance of growth and improvement.
“If you want to, you can only improve and grow,” she stated, emphasizing the choice between thriving or merely existing.
Reflecting on her journey, Lopez acknowledged the lessons life has thrown her way.
“Yes, there have been times when I thought I knew everything, but then life said, ‘Let’s send you another thing and see if you fall for it,’” she remarked.
It’s clear that she sees every challenge as an opportunity to learn, even if it takes a hefty dose of reality to get the message across.
Despite the difficulties she faced during her relationship with Affleck, Lopez made it clear that she holds no bitterness.
“That doesn’t mean it didn’t almost take me out for good,” she reiterated, but she has emerged stronger.
“Now that I’ve come out the other side, I think to myself, ‘Fuck, that is exactly what I needed.’”
As for her dating life, Lopez is relishing her single status.
“When you say you’re just going to be on your own, I’m excited,” she said, indicating that she is focused on herself and her career rather than seeking new romance.
“What can I do when I’m just flying by myself?
What if I’m just free?” she mused, showcasing her enthusiasm for independence.
The story of Lopez and Affleck is a long and winding one.
They first crossed paths on the set of “Gigli” in 2002, quickly falling for each other and getting engaged.
However, their wedding plans fell through in 2004.
After nearly two decades apart, they rekindled their romance in 2021 and tied the knot in April 2022, only to file for divorce just over a year later.
On the professional front, Lopez continues to shine.
Her latest film, “Unstoppable,” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last month and features a stellar cast, including Don Cheadle and Bobby Cannavale.
The film is set to hit theaters on December 6, adding yet another accomplishment to her impressive career.
