In a bombshell revelation that has left *Friends* fans reeling, a longtime confidant of Jennifer Aniston, architect Daniel Carter, has publicly confirmed that he was in a romantic relationship with the beloved actress for nearly two years. The news, shared in an exclusive interview with *In Touch Weekly*, has shocked Aniston’s fanbase, as no rumors or public displays of affection ever hinted at the clandestine love affair, making it one of Hollywood’s best-kept secrets.

Carter, a 52-year-old Los Angeles-based architect known for designing eco-friendly homes for celebrities, has been a fixture in Aniston’s inner circle for over a decade, often spotted at her star-studded dinner parties and charity events. However, fans were blindsided by his claim that their friendship blossomed into romance between 2019 and 2021, a period when Aniston was presumed to be single following her 2017 divorce from Justin Theroux. “Jen and I were in love,” Carter told the outlet. “It was private, intentional, and beautiful, but we decided to keep it out of the spotlight.”

The absence of any prior speculation about the pair has fueled fan disbelief. Unlike Aniston’s high-profile romances with Brad Pitt, Vince Vaughn, and John Mayer, which were dogged by paparazzi and tabloid frenzy, her alleged relationship with Carter flew completely under the radar. No intimate gestures, cozy photos, or insider leaks ever surfaced, even on platforms like X, where fans typically dissect Aniston’s every move. “Not a single rumor? Not even a hand-hold? This is wild,” one fan posted, echoing the sentiment of thousands who flooded social media with reactions ranging from skepticism to awe.

Carter, described as reserved and “not Hollywood,” said the relationship began organically while he was redesigning Aniston’s Bel Air mansion. “We bonded over late-night talks about art, travel, and life,” he shared. “Jen’s warmth and humor drew me in, and it just happened.” He claimed they traveled together discreetly to places like Tulum and Big Sur, always avoiding public scrutiny. The romance reportedly ended amicably in 2021 due to differing life goals, with Carter wanting to start a family and Aniston focusing on her career and philanthropy. “We’re still friends,” he added. “She’s an incredible woman.”

Fans are struggling to process the news, with many pointing to Aniston’s knack for privacy as the reason the relationship stayed hidden. The *Friends* star, now 56, has long been vocal about shielding her personal life, famously telling *Vogue* in 2018, “I don’t owe anybody anything about my heart.” Her ability to keep such a significant romance secret has earned both admiration and disbelief. “Jen pulled off a covert love story like she’s in a spy movie,” one X user quipped. Others speculated that Carter’s revelation might be a publicity stunt, though his low-key profile and lack of social media presence undermine that theory.

Aniston has not commented on Carter’s claims, and her representatives declined to respond, fueling further intrigue. Sources close to the actress, however, told *People* that she’s “unfazed” by the buzz and continues to focus on her wellness brand, Pvolve, and upcoming projects, including a *Friends* reunion special in development. Meanwhile, Carter’s interview has sparked debates about whether other secret chapters of Aniston’s life remain untold.

As fans grapple with this unexpected twist, the revelation underscores Aniston’s enduring mystique. Whether Carter’s story is the full truth or a partial glimpse, it’s clear the *Rachel Green* icon still has the power to surprise. For now, the world is left wondering what other secrets lie behind Aniston’s megawatt smile and famously private heart.