Jennifer Lopez is turning one of the most challenging chapters of her life into a story of resilience and growth.

In a candid interview with Lee Cowan on the September 28th episode of CBS News Sunday Morning, the 56-year-old singer and actress reflected on her divorce from Ben Affleck, describing it as both the best and hardest thing that ever happened to her.

While filming her upcoming movie Kiss of the Spiderwoman during the separation, Lopez admitted it was extremely difficult to balance her personal struggles with the demands of the role. “It was tough. It was a really tough time,” she recalled. Yet, she emphasized that the experience ultimately transformed her. “It didn’t change me—it helped me grow in a way that I needed to grow. I became more self-aware. I’m a different person now than I was a year and a half ago.”

Lopez explained that the divorce forced her to embrace life more fully and be present in the moment. She described this past summer as one of the best of her life, filled with joy, gratitude, and less pressure than she had previously placed on herself. “I realized that the joy is in living—in these moments—and really embracing life for everything it brings: the lessons, the triumphs, even the hardships. Once you understand that, everything becomes lighter, and you can really fly,” she shared.

Interestingly, Lopez also credited Affleck with helping bring Kiss of the Spiderwoman to life, noting his role as a producer and supporter of the project. “I told him this was the role I was born to play, and he helped make it happen,” she said, acknowledging the complicated but enduring influence he had on her professional journey.

For Lopez, the end of her marriage wasn’t just about heartbreak—it was about transformation. She now sees her divorce not as a failure, but as a pivotal moment that allowed her to grow, let go of unnecessary pressures, and embrace a lighter, more fulfilling way of living.