Jennifer Lopez has opened up about her personal growth following her divorce from Ben Affleck. In a conversation on the “Smartless” podcast with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, the 56-year-old actress and singer discussed the impact of her marital split on her life choices.

Lopez admitted that her divorce prompted significant self-reflection. She shared, “There have been moments where my life seemed out of control, and it was due to my own decisions and the need to change aspects of myself.” Lopez emphasized the importance of recognizing the need for personal change, which she prioritized after her separation from Affleck. She stated, “I canceled my tour and took time to figure myself out.”

The experience forced Lopez to examine her behaviors, asking herself what she needed to change to attract more positive experiences. “The turning point came a few years back,” she recalled.

Affleck and Lopez exchanged vows in July 2022 in Las Vegas, followed by a larger celebration at Affleck’s estate in Georgia. Their marriage lasted nearly two years before they separated in April 2024, with Lopez filing for divorce in August.

Reflecting on her divorce, Lopez told “CBS Sunday Morning” in September 2025 that the experience was transformative. “The divorce was the best thing that ever happened to me,” she explained, “because it helped me grow and become more self-aware. I’m a different person now and have learned to embrace life fully.” Lopez added that life lessons make everything feel lighter and enable a sense of freedom.

While promoting her Netflix film “Office Romance,” Lopez spoke to Elle UK about her past relationships. She humorously described having a “PhD in narcissists” and mentioned she could speak on topics such as emotional intelligence and dysfunctional relationships.

Lopez’s history of relationships includes marriages to Ojani Noa, Cris Judd, and Marc Anthony, as well as high-profile romances with Sean “Diddy” Combs, Casper Smart, and Alex Rodriguez.