Ben Affleck made a surprise appearance at the New York City premiere of Jennifer Lopez’s upcoming musical, Kiss of the Spider Woman, on Monday, Oct. 6, showing support for his ex-wife’s professional endeavors.
Lopez, 56, stars as Ingrid Luna in the film, a reimagining of the acclaimed stage musical, and praised Affleck, 53, during her introduction: “Thank you, Ben, this movie wouldn’t have been made without Ben and without Artist Equity,” the actor and producer’s company co-founded with Matt Damon.
The two A-listers posed together on the red carpet, shared smiles, and chatted with the press while celebrating the film, which Affleck co-produced through Artist Equity.
Lopez Credits Affleck Amid Personal Challenges
During the premiere, Lopez reflected on the creative journey, saying, “I get to sing, I get to dance, I get to act. I get to be an old-time Hollywood movie star.” She also described the project as a healing experience amid their 2025 divorce: “The movie is about escapism… Doing this project was such a dream come true for me that it really got me through to survive a moment that was difficult in my personal life.”
Lopez and Affleck’s romantic history spans decades. They first met in 2002, were engaged in 2003, and rekindled their romance in 2021. They married in Las Vegas in July 2022 and held a second ceremony in Georgia the following month. The couple split in 2024, citing irreconcilable differences, and finalized their divorce in February 2025.
Despite their separation, Lopez has openly credited Affleck’s involvement in the musical’s production. She said, “If it wasn’t for Ben, the movie wouldn’t have gotten made. And I will always give him that credit.”
About the Film
Kiss of the Spider Woman is directed and written by Bill Condon (Chicago) and also stars Diego Luna and Tonatiuh. The story, adapted from Manuel Puig’s 1976 novel, is inspired by the 1985 film starring William Hurt and Chita Rivera’s 1993 Broadway performance. Lopez plays a “silver screen diva,” bringing music and dance to the role.
The film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and hits theaters on Oct. 10.
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