Ben Affleck's pals wary of his 'miserable' behavior as relationship with Jennifer Lopez not improving
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Ben Affleck’s recent struggles with his alleged divorce from Jennifer Lopez and his commitments at his new studio, Artists Equity, have reportedly made him a challenging presence for those around him, as reported by In Touch.
A source close to the actor revealed that Affleck, 51, has become more withdrawn and difficult to be around, as he grapples with both personal and professional pressures.
Ben Affleck’s alleged divorce woes impacting his friendships and mood
“With his latest marriage in shambles and the weight of the world on his shoulders thanks to his responsibilities at his new studio, Artists Equity, Ben has a lot on his plate and clearly doesn’t have the time and energy he needs to devote to his closest and longest held friendships," a long time associate of the actor told the outlet.
“Ben’s current situation has put a strain on his friendships,” said the insider. “With his marriage in turmoil and the demands of running Artists Equity, he’s become increasingly distant from his long-time friends.”
"It's a tough situation that Ben has chosen to work through, using it to focus on his next project as a director,” the source revealed, referring to Ben's upcoming film, 'RIP,' which he's working on with his long-time collaborator and close friend, Matt Damon.
"That's just how Ben deals with adversity now that he’s committed to staying sober,” the source continued. “He buckles down and he focuses on the work.”
Affleck has been candid about his struggles with alcoholism and has sought treatment multiple times over the years. His current challenges, including his separation from Lopez, have led him to rely heavily on his family and close friends.
However, his negative attitude has reportedly caused growing frustration among those who have supported him for years, including his brother Casey Affleck and best friend Matt Damon.
According to the source, while they have tried to lift his spirits, Affleck’s resistance to their support has only worsened the situation.
"Unfortunately, that makes him miserable to be around and you have to remember that Matt is just as close to Ben’s brother, Casey (Affleck), as he is to Ben. Right now you have this dynamic where it’s Matt and Casey trying to get Ben out of his funk, and Ben, who is older than both of them, resisting every step of the way,” the source said.
"I don't think Matt and Casey’s prodding is enough to push Ben back into a happier place. The missing link here is a happy home life, and if Ben can put that into place, things should get a lot smoother for him,” they continued.
“He hates being told what to do, even by people who have known him their entire lives and can be ‘real’ with him without fear of getting banished from his circle,” the source further added.
While Matt, 53, remains steadfast in his support for his longtime friend, others within Ben's circle have grown frustrated with the actor's increasingly negative demeanor.
“Ben also surrounds himself with staff and colleagues who aren’t famous, but who have been in his camp for 10 or even 15 years,” the source stated. “Among that group, there’s been a lot of complaining about Ben’s nasty attitude this year. He was such a happy guy for all of 2023 but this year has been a completely different animal!”
Online reactions surge over Ben Affleck’s alleged divorce from Jennifer Lopez
Ben Affleck's reported struggles amid his divorce from Jennifer Lopez have sparked a wave of online reactions, with many weighing in on the couple's turbulent relationship.
One user commented, "With a dive attitude like hers, wonder if she has any friends to begin with????"
Another chimed in, speculating, "JLo deserves better. His track record isn't great—he would grind me down too. Jealous of her fame, me thinks."
Critics of the couple didn't hold back, with one user bluntly stating, "The most unhappy couple ever."
Others suggested that Lopez's circle may not be as supportive as it seems. "She does not have close friends. Why do I say that? Because they are the ones leaking her business to the press. Also, they are helping her to stay delusional. They aren't honest with her," one person noted.
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