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The Democratic National Convention (DNC) took an unexpected turn on Wednesday when host Mindy Kaling gave a surprising shout-out to Ben Affleck, just one day after news broke of his impending divorce from Jennifer Lopez.
As Kaling wrapped up her speech on the third night of the DNC in Chicago, she took a moment to acknowledge her home state of Massachusetts. After praising local sports teams, the actress and writer addressed Affleck directly, saying "Ben Affleck, hang in there!" followed by "Dunkin' Donuts is the best coffee in the world" - a nod to the actor's well-known partnership with the franchise.
The comment came amid revelations that Lopez had filed for divorce from Affleck on Tuesday, which happened to be their second wedding anniversary. Court documents obtained by TMZ cited April 26, 2024 as the date of separation. Notably, the filing did not mention a prenuptial agreement.
The couple's whirlwind romance captivated fans when they rekindled their relationship in 2021, nearly two decades after their initial engagement ended in 2004. They tied the knot in Las Vegas in July 2022, followed by a lavish ceremony in Georgia the next month.
However, cracks in their relationship reportedly emerged early on. A source told Page Six that during their 2022 honeymoon in Italy, "When they weren't in front of the cameras, they would barely speak to each other during what was supposed to be the happiest time of their life."
The divorce filing has reignited discussions about the challenges of blending fame and privacy. In Lopez's recent documentary "The Greatest Love Story Never Told," Affleck expressed discomfort with the public nature of their relationship, stating, "Things that are private I always felt are sacred and special because, in part, they're private."
Despite the split, both parties seem focused on their children's well-being. A source told People magazine, "The kids are a top priority, as they always have been." Lopez is mother to 16-year-old twins, while Affleck has three children from his previous marriage to Jennifer Garner.
As the divorce proceedings unfold, speculation has already begun about the division of assets. Reports suggest Lopez may keep her $5 million green diamond engagement ring.
The couple may face an awkward reunion in the coming weeks, as they are expected to attend the premiere of their film "Unstoppable" together. This public appearance will undoubtedly draw significant attention as fans and media alike scrutinize their interactions in light of recent events.
