In her divorce petition filed with the Los Angeles Superior Court, Lopez not only requested to revert to her maiden name but also asked the court to deny any possibility of spousal support for both her and her soon-to-be ex-husband. This move marks a significant chapter in Lopez’s ongoing public and personal narrative.
Just under two years ago, Lopez made headlines for choosing to adopt Affleck's surname—a decision that was met with mixed reactions. Critics had their say, with some arguing that the choice symbolized a step back for modern feminism. The conversation gained traction after a November 2022 Vogue interview, where Lopez addressed the controversy surrounding her name change.
In a response to a New York Times op-ed by Jennifer Weiner, which criticized Lopez’s decision, Lopez firmly defended her choice. The op-ed had likened a woman taking her husband's surname to a form of submission, suggesting that such a decision indicated belonging to rather than with her spouse. Lopez, however, was unapologetic about her decision, emphasizing her pride in her married name.
“I understand the criticism,” Lopez said in Vogue, “but for me, it was a gesture of commitment and romance. It wasn’t about submitting to anyone; it was about honoring the union we share.” She explained that while people would still call her Jennifer Lopez, legally, she felt that adopting Affleck’s surname represented the deep bond she felt with her husband.
Despite her affirmation of her decision, Lopez was clear about not wanting Affleck to take her last name. “It doesn’t fit with the traditional romantic notion,” she shared. “To me, it’s more about control and empowerment. I’m confident in who I am and where I’m going, and I see my choice as a reflection of that.”
Lopez’s journey with names and relationships is both fascinating and complex. Her renewed romance with Affleck, which ignited in 2021, was a major headline grabber. The rekindling of their early 2000s romance came after Lopez’s engagement with former MLB star Alex Rodriguez fell apart in April 2021.
The love story between Lopez and Affleck has seen many twists and turns. Originally engaged in 2002, their relationship ended in 2004, which Lopez described as the “biggest heartbreak” of her life in a November 2022 interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1. Their paths diverged, with Affleck marrying actress Jennifer Garner in 2005. The couple had three children together before their split in 2015, and their divorce was finalized in 2018.
Meanwhile, Lopez’s romantic history is equally eventful. She married singer Marc Anthony in 2004, and the couple welcomed twins in 2008 before their separation in 2014. Lopez also had previous marriages with actor Ojani Noa and dancer Cris Judd, adding layers to her complex personal life.
This latest development in Lopez's life—changing her name back to Lopez—reflects more than just a legal adjustment. It highlights her commitment to her own identity and autonomy, even amidst high-profile public scrutiny. Her story is a testament to navigating personal and public challenges with grace and resilience.
As Jennifer Lopez steps back into the spotlight with her name as Lopez, she continues to inspire with her journey through love, identity, and personal empowerment. Her decisions, while sometimes controversial, reflect a deeper narrative of self-assertion and personal growth.
Login