Jennifer Lopez wishes for cowboy-like romance as shown in 'Yellowstone' after split from Ben Affleck

ASPEN, COLORADO: When 'Yellowstone' wrapped up its six-year run in December 2024, it left behind a legacy of stunning cinematography, high-stakes drama, and unforgettable characters.

Among them, Rip Wheeler, played by Cole Hauser, stood out as the rugged, loyal, and fiercely protective cowboy who stole the hearts of many, including Jennifer Lopez.

Jennifer Lopez eyes Rip Wheeler-like love as post-breakup reset

Following her highly publicized split from Ben Affleck, finalized in early 2025, Lopez allegedly took time to heal.

According to reports from the Daily Mail, she surrounded herself with friends and family, taking the necessary space to move on from the breakup.

Now, she’s ready to jump back into the dating world - but with a very specific type in mind.

A sorce said, “She had a crush on Rip Wheeler from Yellowstone and wants a guy like that, someone who can have her back and make sure she is okay. She wants to be put first and made to feel special."

They added, "Her life is a lot, she needs a man who can handle all that and still love her unconditionally like the way Rip loves Beth Dutton.”

While it’s safe to assume Lopez understands 'Yellowstone' is a scripted show and not a documentary, the desire for a devoted, no-nonsense cowboy type is real, Whiskey Riff reported.

After years of high-profile relationships with movie stars and musicians, it seems Lopez is reportedly looking for someone with the grit and grounded nature of a modern-day Rip Wheeler.

Could Kevin Costner be Jennifer Lopez's Rip Wheeler?

Interestingly enough, Lopez was seen spending time with Yellowstone’s leading man, Kevin Costner, around Christmas last year.

The two were spotted together at Kemo Sabe, a well-known western apparel store in Aspen, Colorado.

While nothing substantial has been reported about the nature of their relationship, Costner does seem to fit the mold of what Lopez is looking for.

At 69, Costner embodies the rugged charm and quiet strength that defined John Dutton, a character just as iconic as Rip Wheeler himself.

The Cole Hauser-Ben Affleck connection

Adding an intriguing layer to this story is the connection between Cole Hauser, the actor behind Rip Wheeler, and Lopez’s ex, Ben Affleck.

Both men appeared in the 1997 classic 'Good Will Hunting', which Affleck co-wrote and starred in alongside Matt Damon.

Though it’s unclear how often they crossed paths in the years since, the Hollywood circle is small, one can’t help but wonder if Affleck and Hauser ever discussed their mutual Lopez connection.

All in all, Taylor Sheridan’s western saga garnered both praise and criticism for its explosive finale.

But one thing remains certain: the show’s impact is undeniable, especially when it comes to its beloved characters that reeled in Lopez too.

As country singer Zach Bryan once said, “If she wants a cowboy, I’ll cowboy the best."