Ben Affleck is finally speaking out amid ongoing speculation surrounding his rumored split from wife Jennifer Lopez. The Oscar-winning actor and director has set the record straight about the status of their relationship and what he describes as the “root causes” behind the tension.

In a candid interview with a close source, Affleck reportedly said, “It hasn’t been easy. We both carry a lot of history, and sometimes that past gets in the way of the present.” His comments come after weeks of media scrutiny and fan speculation, particularly after the two were seen spending time apart and attending events solo.

The couple, who rekindled their romance in 2021 nearly two decades after calling off their first engagement, married in 2022 in a highly-publicized ceremony. Though many fans embraced the long-awaited reunion, Affleck admits that blending their lives hasn’t been without challenges.

“We love each other deeply, but love alone doesn’t fix everything. There are issues we continue to work through, especially when it comes to balancing our careers and family obligations,” he shared.

Sources close to the couple have echoed these sentiments, adding that the pair has been in therapy and making efforts to better communicate. “They are trying. But it’s been hard. The schedules, the pressure, the spotlight — it’s a lot.”

Rumors of trouble in paradise escalated after Lopez appeared solo at multiple public appearances, including the Met Gala, where Affleck was notably absent. Social media erupted with concern, leading to a wave of speculation about a possible separation.

Affleck is said to be committed to working on the marriage, saying, “I don’t want to walk away. We’ve come too far and been through too much to give up now.” He also addressed what he calls “misleading narratives” in the press, stating, “A lot of what’s out there is noise. People love drama. But we’re focused on each other and our kids. That’s what really matters.”

Jennifer Lopez has not issued a formal statement, but has continued promoting her upcoming projects, including a new film and her This Is Me…Now tour. She did, however, like several posts on social media about resilience and protecting your peace, which many fans interpreted as subtle commentary.

Despite the swirling rumors, insiders insist that divorce is not yet on the table. “They are taking things day by day,” a source revealed. “It’s a tough time, but not the end.”

Affleck closed the conversation by emphasizing his respect and admiration for Lopez: “Jen is an incredible woman. She’s strong, talented, and full of love. We just need to keep showing up for each other.”

As the world watches, one thing is clear: Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez are fighting to save their love, even amid personal and public storms.