Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck's Divorce Buzz A Convenient Distraction from Career Hurdles?

Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck
MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images

Amid swirling rumors about Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck's marriage status, experts in the public relations field suggest that the speculations were strategically initiated to divert attention away from potential challenges impacting the singer's professional trajectory.

Lopez expressed disappointment after announcing the cancellation of her This Is Me... Live tour due to disappointing ticket sales. Critics have dubbed her latest Netflix movie, Atlas, a "disappointing flop," while rumors swirl about the possible cancellation of her Las Vegas residency.

In the aftermath, speculations arise about the state of her marriage with Affleck. . Yet, PR specialist Mayah Riaz remains skeptical.

In an interview with The Mirror, Riaz shared her insights, highlighting key events such as Lopez's tour alterations, which included canceling seven dates in March 2024 and rebranding it from This Is Me...Now to This Is Me ... Live: The Greatest Hits the following month.

Given the current talk surrounding her possible divorce from the Batman v. Superman actor, some question whether these rumors were intentionally circulated to divert attention from her recent career struggles.

Riaz explained that celebrities often encounter gossip and speculation, especially when they are navigating difficult periods in their professional lives.

However, when faced with challenges in their professional lives, some famous people may resort to using divorce rumors or personal controversies to distract themselves from setbacks.

The public relations expert emphasized the need for doubt regarding rumors surrounding Lopez and Affleck, suggesting that credible confirmation is essential before concluding.

In alignment with Riaz's perspective, PR expert Ryan McCormick, who also spoke to the outlet, agreed by stating the "Get Right" singer may be facing a personal challenge that she prefers to keep out of the public eye.

He explained, "It could be about her marriage to Affleck which seems to be under intense scrutiny daily. However, may also be that ticket sales haven't been exceptional."

"If Lopez is seen performing in half-filled arenas, it'll harm her image. Cancelling the tour may have actually been a choice between lesser of two PR disasters."

Another publicist, Michael Levine, said the decision to cancel Lopez's upcoming tour must have weighed heavily on her. Levine shared his insights, stating, "Despite her unparalleled talent and dedication, the tour faced numerous challenges, including reports of low ticket sales and the need to cancel several dates."

This comes after the couple were spotted with very odd body language over the weekend.

Lopez and Affleck appeared poised as they emerged into the public eye. Making an entrance at Affleck's son's basketball match, the latter welcomed his wife with a friendly air kiss beside her cheek as she pulled up in her own car outside the venue.

Upon observation by body language expert Blanca Cobb who spoke with FOX News, she said it was clear that there was a friendly atmosphere between the couple, contrary to the typical behavior of a romantic duo.

"It's a kiss on the cheek, like when you see a friend. Even his stance, the way his body is angled, is more platonic than romantic. And his feet are in a runner's pose, as if he's there for a few seconds before he moves on."

The specialist added, "If the couple is having relationship difficulties, then it makes sense. When you love someone, and you're going through a hard time, you might show reserved affection."

Observing Lopez closely, Cobb made an observation about the "All I Have" singer's body language. She pointed out that Lopez's demeanor appeared more reserved and protective, indicating her emotional state.

Noting how she held her purse close to her midsection, it seemed as though she was guarding herself psychologically, the expert added.

Cobb added how it is interesting to see the dynamics shift between Lopez and Affleck.

"This physical distance, often a response to relationship issues, can be a source of emotional turmoil, a feeling many of us can relate to."

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Ben Affleck, Jennifer Lopez
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