They were one of Hollywood’s hottest power couples – and up until recently were headed to the altar. They’ve previously said they were working through some things, and he was quite openly trying to woo her again. But it still didn’t work out in the end.
It’s on everyone’s minds: Why did Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez break up?
The couple themselves did not go into specifics when they released their joint statement last week:
“We have realized we are better as friends and look forward to remaining so. We will continue to work together and support each other on our shared businesses and projects. We wish the best for each other and one another’s children. Out of respect for them, the only other comment we have to say is thank you to every one who has sent kind words and support.”
But sources might be able to paint a clearer picture as to why the couple ultimately broke up.
According to People, sources have been saying that J.Lo felt she couldn’t fully “trust” A-Rod anymore – but it wasn’t necessarily because of infidelity.
“Whether or not he has cheated doesn’t matter,” a music source tells the outlet. “She won’t tolerate the fear of it in the air between them.”
Per People, one of the singer’s ~friends~ believes it took its toll, which led J.Lo to call things off. “She insisted on it. There are are too many issues that are unresolved,” the friend says.
“She has been pretty miserable,” the friend adds, “and didn’t think it was in her best interests to stay with Alex.”
Another source tells Entertainment Tonight, “She knew it was time to let go. There were issues when it came to wedding plans and trust issues that she couldn’t get past.”
“Her kids are sad about the breakup because they all grew so close, but ultimately want what’s best for their mom and for her to be happy,” the source continues. “There is still love and respect between the two families.”
J.Lo and A-Rod started dating in 2017 and became engaged in 2019. They were gearing up to tie the knot – but had to cancel their wedding plans twice amid the ongoing pandemic. Their blended families quarantined together during lockdown – and it’s obvi that their kids also became really close.
Earlier this year, cheating rumors involving Alex and Southern Charm’s Madison LeCroy started swirling – but was quickly shut down. J.Lo and A-Rod, however, also sparked split rumors shortly after. At the time, they addressed the rumors with a statement saying, “All reports are inaccurate. We are working through some things.”
When J.Lo flew to the Dominican Republic to film Shotgun Wedding, Alex flew in to visit her – and they were even spotted packing on the PDA at the resoirt where she was staying. At the time, things appeared hopeful that they would work things out.
According to an ET source, the “Love Don’t Cost A Thing” singer “tried her hardest” to make the relationship work, but it just “wasn’t making her happy anymore.”
But it appears J.Lo, who is mom to 13-year-old twins Max and Emme, still has a lot of love for A-Rod’s fam – she just greeted his youngest daughter, Ella, who recently turned 13, a happy birthday on social media.
Posting a black-and-white photo of her and Ella hugging, she decorated it with two hearts and wrote, “Happy Birthday Ella Bella.”
And when Alex celebrated Ella’s birthday on social media – he’s also dad to 16-year-old daughter Natasha – he, shared a montage photos and videos of Ella, which included some moments with J.Lo and her kids.
As for J.Lo has been holding up since the split, “Jennifer has been doing her best to keep her head up since her split with Alex,” a source tells ET. “She’s been doing self-care practices that balance her mind, body and spirit and has been surrounding herself and talking to loved ones and her kids. She is also, of course, committed to and focused on work. Staying busy and involved in things that make Jennifer feel fulfilled has been good for her.”
