Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have been surrounded by intense split rumors recently, but public relations experts suggest that these rumors might be a tactic to divert attention from Lopez’s current professional challenges.
J-Lo recently canceled her “This Is Me… Live” tour due to low ticket sales and expressed feeling “heartsick and devastated” about the decision. Additionally, her latest Netflix film received poor reviews, and there are reports that her lucrative Las Vegas residency might be canceled as well.
Amid these career setbacks, speculation about trouble in her marriage to Ben Affleck has also surfaced. However, PR expert Mayah Riaz suggests that these rumors might be a deliberate distraction. Speaking to The Mirror, Riaz noted, “In March, JLo canceled the last seven dates of the tour. Then in April, the tour name was changed from This Is Me…Now to This Is Me… Live: The Greatest Hits.” She continued, “It’s no wonder there’s speculation about the divorce rumors surrounding her and Ben. It could have been created to distract from her career downfall. It is not uncommon for celebrities to face speculation and rumors, particularly during challenging times in their careers.”
Riaz emphasized the need for skepticism regarding these rumors until credible confirmation is available. PR expert Ryan McCormick echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Lopez might be dealing with personal issues she doesn’t want publicized. He stated, “Ms. Lopez may be enduring a tribulation that she doesn’t want made public. It could be about her marriage to Ben Affleck, which seems to be under intense scrutiny daily. However, it may also be that ticket sales haven’t been exceptional. If Lopez is seen performing in half-filled arenas, it’ll harm her image. Canceling the tour may have actually been a choice between lesser of two PR disasters.”
US publicist Michael Levine added that the tour cancellation must have been a tough decision for Lopez. He explained, “Despite her unparalleled talent and dedication, the tour faced numerous challenges, including reports of low ticket sales and the need to cancel several dates. Last month, the tour was rebranded as a greatest hits show to align with audience interests after her latest album, ‘This Is Me… Now,’ received mixed reviews and saw a decline on the Billboard charts.”
Lopez addressed her fans on her website when she canceled the tour, expressing her disappointment and promising to make it up to them in the future. “I am completely heartsick and devastated about letting you down. Please know that I wouldn’t do this if I didn’t feel that it was absolutely necessary. I promise I will make it up to you and we will all be together again,” she wrote. “I love you all so much. Until next time.”
