Ben Affleck, the Hollywood A-lister known as much for his high-profile romances as for his filmography, is reportedly ready to step back into the dating scene—on his own terms.
After his highly publicized split from Jennifer Lopez, insiders revealed that Affleck is open to new relationships but only with partners who are sober. For Affleck, a recovering alcoholic, the desire to protect his sobriety has become non-negotiable, especially as he navigates life post-split from Lopez.
Affleck, 52, and Lopez, 55, rekindled their relationship in 2021, sparking a media frenzy as fans welcomed the return of “Bennifer.” The two even took the plunge into marriage, tying the knot in a whirlwind ceremony followed by another celebration just a month later. However, the honeymoon phase didn’t last long; by August 2024, they had filed for divorce amid rumors that tension had strained their relationship.
The decision to stay committed to sobriety was not a new one for Affleck. Friends worried that the emotional toll of this latest breakup might push him into relapse, particularly given his long history of struggles with alcohol. But insiders say Affleck is laser-focused on his recovery, keeping it at the forefront as he considers the next chapter of his life.
“He only wants to date someone who is sober or in recovery,” a source revealed, stressing that Affleck’s journey toward health and stability is now his top priority. After moving out of the $68 million mansion he once shared with Lopez and into a quiet bachelor pad in Brentwood, Affleck’s close circle hopes that this phase of introspection will reinforce his commitment to a sober lifestyle.
Having been candid about his struggles with alcohol for years, Affleck himself admits that his journey has had its ups and downs. His sobriety story began in 1997, with stints in rehab in 2001, 2017, and 2018.
He’s openly shared that alcohol had once been his coping mechanism during stressful periods in his life, particularly as his marriage to Jennifer Garner began to deteriorate. Though he credits Garner with supporting his efforts to get sober, the pressures of Hollywood and personal struggles proved challenging for the actor to navigate.
In a 2020 interview with “The New York Times”, Affleck reflected on the cycles of hardship that led him back to alcohol, explaining how his choices were often attempts to “fill a hole” caused by dissatisfaction and loneliness. He acknowledged that the toll of marital troubles made him drink more, but he was quick to take responsibility for his actions.
As Affleck steps into this new chapter, it’s clear he’s looking for a partner who will respect his commitment to sobriety and the journey that comes with it. After two years that have been a rollercoaster, Affleck is determined not to risk the hard-won progress he’s made.
Lopez, meanwhile, is reportedly taking time to focus on herself and her family, sharing that she’s “not looking for anybody” right now. Despite the sad ending to their love story, both Affleck and Lopez seem to be moving forward with clarity, each committed to personal growth in the spotlight.
