Ben Affleck discussed his co-parenting approach with ex-wife Jennifer Garner during an appearance at The Rip premiere on January 13, shedding light on the rule they follow while raising their three children in Hollywood. The actor emphasized the importance of giving their kids space to decide their own paths, highlighting a key aspect of their Ben Affleck co-parenting rule.
Affleck and Garner’s Approach to Raising Their Children
At the Alice Tully Hall event, Affleck, who shares Violet, 20, Seraphina Rose, 17, and Samuel, 13, with Garner, revealed that they intentionally avoid pushing their children toward acting careers. Contrary to many Hollywood families where children often follow their parents into entertainment, Affleck explained that they want their children to define their own futures without pressure from their public lives. Reflecting on this, he stated,
You put something on your children when you have a public life and that’s complicated. We really want to give them room to figure out what they want to do,
Ben Affleck, Actor.
Affleck further expressed his hope that his children won’t feel compelled to pursue acting despite his own success. He elaborated,
I wouldn’t push them into that. They’re brilliant and lovely and wonderful and we love them and we’re proud of them. And hope that they don’t waste their life acting.
Ben Affleck, Actor.
His comments distinguished his family’s mindset from peers like co-star Matt Damon, who attended the premiere with his wife Luciana and all four of his daughters, while Affleck appeared alone. The emphasis on protecting their children’s autonomy was a central theme during his interview with reporters.
Reflecting on a Private Childhood Beyond Fame
Affleck also reflected on his own experiences growing up without the spotlight, suggesting that his less public upbringing offered him valuable perspective. He remarked,
In some way, it was kind of a blessing to anonymity, to struggle, to where we started, which was just in the middle of nowhere.
Ben Affleck, Actor.
This insight into his past underscores why he and Garner prioritize giving their children the freedom to choose their paths rather than assuming they will follow in their parents’ entertainment footsteps.
Jennifer Garner’s Perspective on Co-Parenting After Divorce
Ben Affleck’s recent remarks coincided with Jennifer Garner’s candid reflections on their amicable co-parenting relationship following their 2015 divorce, which ended a decade of marriage. In an interview with Marie Claire UK, Garner described the emotional challenges of stepping away from both a partnership and close friendship, sharing her feelings about rebuilding their connection:
losing a true partnership and friendship
Jennifer Garner, Actress.
Despite the initial difficulties, Garner expressed gratitude for how their dynamic evolved, stating,
co-parent at this point in time with peace and equanimity and a partnership that I didn’t know I would ever get back to.
Jennifer Garner, Actress.
Their ability to cultivate a healthy co-parenting bond has allowed them to jointly raise their children with respect and cooperation, reflecting a rare maturity in post-divorce relationships.
What This Means for Their Children and Hollywood Families
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner’s co-parenting rule, focused on allowing their children to find their own ambitions away from the pressures of fame, highlights a thoughtful approach to parenting in the entertainment industry. Their commitment to shielding their children from assumptions about their futures could serve as a model for other celebrity families facing similar challenges. As their children continue to grow and explore their talents, this philosophy may encourage a more grounded and individualized path for the next generation.
