Following his widely publicized split from Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck is reportedly taking time to refocus on his personal life and is already thinking about what he wants in his next relationship.
According to a source who recently spoke with In Touch, the Academy Award-winning actor is optimistic about the future and open to love again, despite the emotional toll of his recent divorce. “The divorce did a number on him,” the insider shared, but clarified that Affleck remains “hopeful” for “lasting love.”
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Affleck, 52, finalized his divorce from Lopez in early 2025, following months of speculation surrounding their relationship. The two rekindled their romance in 2021 and married in 2022, but eventually grew apart under the weight of personal pressures and conflicting schedules.
The source offered a rare glimpse into what Affleck values most in a potential partner. “She must be independent, strong in her convictions, and understand that Ben’s sobriety has to come first,” the insider explained. “Someone sober would be ideal, but it’s not a priority.”

Affleck has long been open about his struggles with addiction and has worked hard to maintain his sobriety over the years. His efforts to remain grounded and healthy are a central part of his life, and any future relationship will need to align with that priority.
While Affleck has yet to be romantically linked to anyone new, his inner circle suggests he’s approaching future relationships with a sense of caution and clarity. “He’s not in a rush, but he knows what he wants this time around,” the source added.
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In March 2025, Affleck publicly addressed the breakup with Lopez during an interview with GQ, hoping to clear the air and avoid sensationalism. “Yeah, there’s no scandal, no soap opera, no intrigue,” he said candidly. “The truth is, when you talk to somebody, ‘Hey, what happened?’ Well, there is no: ‘This is what happened.’ It’s just a story about people trying to figure out their lives and relationships in ways that we all sort of normally do.”
Affleck’s heartfelt remarks highlighted a desire to move forward without bitterness — and a focus on growth, both personally and romantically. With a renewed sense of self-awareness and a clear idea of the kind of partner he needs, the actor appears ready to start a new chapter — one built on mutual respect, independence, and a shared understanding of life’s complexities.
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