NEED TO KNOW
- Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez have been texting up a storm, fuelling dating speculation.
- The pair initially became close friends when they co-judged on American Idol together.
- Sources say their bond strengthened after their respective recent break-ups.
- News of a romance may not sit well with Keith’s ex-wife, Nicole Kidman.
Much chatter has surrounded Keith Urban’s dating life since his divorce from Nicole Kidman, and he’s most recently sparked chatter with Jennifer Lopez.
Earlier this year, sources told New Idea that Keith, 58, had been in regular contact with Jennifer Lopez, his American Idol co-judge, since late 2025.
Now, the chatter has reignited, with sources claiming that Keith is well and truly ready to move on after seeing photographs of Nicole Kidman getting close with businessman Michael Reinstein.
After Jennifer’s split from Ben Affleck, all eyes have turned to Keith, however the friends have reportedly laughed off suggestions they are “exploring a relationship in private”.
While Jennifer and Keith’s bond may seem unlikely, they have actually known each other for more than 10 years, becoming friends on American Idol.
The pair reportedly began texting and calling each other not long following Keith and Nicole’s split in September 2025, and pals are convinced that a serious relationship could flourish.
“People in both their worlds are trying to play matchmaker for them. The idea of teaming up for some sort of romantic duet has been suggested as a way to jump-start things,” says one source.
“If their would-be Cupids get their way and they do end up taking their friendship to the next level, it could be a really great thing for them on so many levels.”
“From a publicity standpoint, the fans would eat it up. And on a personal level, a fun fling seems like what they both need right now.”
J.Lo, says one source, is one of the few trusted friends Keith has opened up to in recent months having gone through four divorces of her own, including her latest from Ben Affleck.
The source says, “She knows what a good heart he has, she says it’s horrendous that he’s having to deal with all these attacks on his character.”
A second insider also tells New Idea, “Keith and Jennifer have an enormous amount of respect for each other. Without their A-list spouses, it’s easy to see why they’ve become closer, and sparks are flying.”
How long have Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez been close?
The romance speculation is not altogether new. As New Idea reported at the time, Keith and J.Lo’s chemistry was always evident when they appeared on American Idol together. It became a hot topic of debate at the time amongst fans.
“She’s amazing!” Keith gushed back in 2017, the year after their three-season stint as judges drew to a close. “And she’s as beautiful backstage as she is on stage. Yeah, she’s a goddess.”
Returning the compliment around the same period, J.Lo enthused about Keith’s impressive ability to be in touch with his emotions. She also raved that his pride and commitment “will carry you through anything”.
Fast forward to the present day, and their bond has only strengthened.
“J.Lo reached out to Keith as soon as she found out he and Nicole had split up. She wanted to offer her support and check in,” the source exclusively shares.
“A lot of people did that for her when she and Ben broke up, and it meant everything to her.”
How has Nicole Kidman reacted to Keith Urban moving on?
While Nicole is moving on from her second failed marriage, sources say news of Keith and J.Lo dating would “go over like a lead balloon”.
“But it’s not like she and J.Lo are friends, so there’s no code that needs to be followed. Keith is a single man and fair game,” says the first source.
“At this stage, it’s still very platonic between them, mostly sending each other encouraging messages and funny memes. But that hasn’t stopped people from seeing the potential for something more here.”
