In a 2016 interaction with Vanity Fair, Jennifer Garner opened up about her marriage to Ben Affleck and the challenges they faced. The couple’s union began amidst Affleck’s bad-boy image and a career slump, while Garner’s was on the rise. However, soon, upheavals in the form of Affleck’s alcoholism and multiple rehabilitation visits along with reports of the couple trying to salvage their marriage through counseling surfaced. After a tumultuous stretch of a strained relationship and struggling to keep it all together for their three children, the duo officially filed for divorce in April 2017.
And in July 2022, Ben Affleck married his ex-fiance-turned-present-wife, Jennifer Lopez. Reflecting on their relationship, Garner acknowledged that their current situation is not what she had initially imagined when they got together. Despite their differences, she emphasized the importance of supporting each other through difficult times.
Jennifer Garner revealed how despite her resilience, she is ready to move on
Jennifer Garner admitted that witnessing the start of Ben Affleck’s new film, Live by Night, which he directed and starred in, was particularly challenging for her. However, she remained resilient and acknowledged that people often hope for a simple resolution, much like the desire for Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt to reconcile after their breakup.
To cope with the upheavals in her personal life, Garner turned to activities that bring her solace and support. She found comfort in reconnecting with childhood hobbies such as playing the piano and attending church. Writing poetry and engaging in physical activities like dance classes also helped her navigate the emotional turmoil. She expressed her anticipation for moving past the stage of feeling pitied and reclaiming her sense of humor.
“I definitely put a lot of time towards my marriage that I will now have for myself. I don’t know how I will use that.”
When it comes to dating, Garner shared a humorous encounter with a fellow airline passenger who asked her out for coffee. While she joked about declining the offer, she contemplated the dating scene and notes that traditional gestures, like receiving flowers, have become rare in modern times.
Looking ahead, Garner emphasized that her focus is on their children and ensuring they have a stable environment. She acknowledged the pain and regrets that people experience, emphasizing that there’s no need for others to harbor hatred or judge Affleck.
Jennifer Garner urged people not to hate Ben Affleck on her account
Jennifer Garner’s evolved perspective allows her to maintain a friendship with her ex-husband, driven by their shared love for their children. Despite Ricky Gervais’ joke about Ben Affleck’s fidelity at the Golden Globes, Garner laughed it off and asserts that she doesn’t hate him.
“I laughed. People have pain—they do regrettable things, they feel shame, and shame equals pain. No one needs to hate him for me. I don’t hate him. Certainly, we don’t have to beat the guy up. Don’t worry—my eyes were wide open during the marriage. I’m taking good care of myself.”
Garner’s dedication to her family is evident in her decision to remain in their Pacific Palisades estate, while Affleck, who is married to Jennifer Lopez, resided in the guesthouse when he was still living with his family after the separation. Despite her parents’ long-lasting marriage, Garner finds it challenging to pinpoint a specific turning point in her own relationship. She recognized the need for self-reflection and accepts that both parties contribute to the success or failure of a marriage.
Source: Vanity Fair
