Whispers are abuzz in Hollywood circles that a reunion could be on the horizon for former power couple Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck. Following Affleck's divorce from Jennifer Lopez and amidst their growing bond, the pair has been spotted sharing intimate moments at a family gathering, with Affleck affectionately embracing Garner in a heartwarming clip.
The two have been communicating more frequently than they have in years, with Affleck reportedly regarding Garner as the "love of his life." During his separation from Lopez, Garner allegedly stepped in to offer comfort, standing by Affleck's side through the tumultuous split.
Now, it appears that the pair, who share three children—Violet, 19, Seraphina (Fin), 16, and Samuel (Sam), 13—might be contemplating reigniting their romantic spark, having grown even closer in recent times. A video clip obtained by the Daily Mail captures a tender moment between the duo at Combat Paintball Park in Castaic, near Los Angeles, where they were seen engaging in a friendly paintball game with Fin and Sam.
In the clip, Affleck casually wraps his arms around Garner as she focuses intently on her paintball gun, aiming it ahead. Garner, in turn, leans back into his embrace, seemingly returning the affection while continuing with the game.
As speculation mounts over their recent sightings, a source close to Affleck reveals that the actor has gained a clearer understanding of his feelings for the mother of his children. "After reuniting with Lopez, it became evident to Ben that she was never 'the one who got away,' nor was she the love of his life. Jen was," shares the insider.
These feelings reportedly became even more pronounced as Garner supported Affleck through his divorce from Lopez, which took a heavy emotional toll on him. The source adds, "Jen was there for him during his split, and she will always be there for him. They are best friends and share a bond that's strengthened by their children."
However, despite their mutual feelings, a reunion seems unlikely anytime soon, given that Garner is currently in a relationship with John Miller. On one hand, Garner is reportedly "happy in her relationship," as Miller has proven to be a supportive partner. On the other hand, Affleck respects her relationship with the tech CEO and understands the situation.
As for Miller's feelings about Affleck and Garner's close bond, the source claims it makes him somewhat uncomfortable. However, he understands their unique relationship as exes and respects their shared history.
"When John witnesses their tactile displays of affection, does it irritate him? Absolutely," disclosed the insider. The source elaborated, "It would trouble anyone, but this scenario is hardly unfamiliar territory. Ben and Jen share a bond unlike any other, particularly for former spouses. Ben harbors a love for her that surpasses any woman he has ever adored, save for his mother. Ben can't resist flirting with Jen, whom views these gestures as purely platonic."
Reports emerged in January that Garner and Affleck were "spending more quality time together than ever before." "Especially since Ben's divorce from Jennifer [Lopez], coupled with the LA wildfires and all the chaos," the pair "have found themselves relying on each other more deeply than ever," an insider revealed to Page Six at the time. "Their bond is genuinely close," the source continued, adding that Affleck and Garner are "thankful for the remarkable relationship they've nurtured."
The insider further illuminated how the Oscar-winner and Emmy-nominee managed to forge a tight bond despite their tumultuous start due to their 2015 divorce. "They share custody amicably and maintain a friendly demeanor when it comes to matters concerning their children," the source revealed. "[They both] believe maintaining a positive relationship serves everyone's best interests, including themselves and their kids."
Garner's beau, Miller, reportedly harbors hopes that she might reconsider her close proximity to her ex-husband, Affleck, now that his divorce from Lopez has been finalized. The Cali Group CEO reportedly respects Affleck and understands their shared parenthood, but he isn't fond of sharing his girlfriend.
"John is grappling with Ben and Jen's relationship by mostly remaining silent, though it's an uphill battle," a source told the Daily Mail. "He acknowledges Ben's necessary presence as a father and is more than okay with that, but he yearns to be the dominant figure in the relationship."
"John only discusses Ben when Jen or their kids bring him up. He never initiates conversations about him," the source noted.
