Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner set the internet on fire after they were spotted in an intimate embrace during their son Samuel’s 13th birthday celebration at a paintball park. Eyewitnesses claim the former Hollywood power couple looked closer than ever, reigniting speculation about their relationship status.
Too Close for Comfort?
Onlookers at the event described the interaction as more than friendly co-parenting. Affleck, 52, reportedly wrapped his arms around Garner’s waist while pressing against her and whispering near her ear. The affectionate moment did not go unnoticed, especially since Garner’s longtime boyfriend, businessman John Miller, was nowhere to be seen.
One source at the event said the exes were laughing and joking like old times, with undeniable chemistry between them. “They were having a great time together, and sparks definitely flew,” the source added.
Body language expert Patti Wood analyzed the embrace and suggested that Affleck’s physical closeness indicated a deeper emotional connection. “His posture communicates a desire for intimacy or a level of familiarity based on their history,” she explained. Wood emphasized that Affleck’s full-body embrace was not a typical gesture between exes, hinting at lingering romantic feelings.
Is Jennifer Garner’s Relationship with John Miller in Trouble?
Garner, 52, has been dating John Miller since 2018, and reports have suggested that the two are informally engaged. However, Hollywood insiders believe Affleck’s affectionate display could create tension in her relationship.
A source close to the situation shared concerns about how Miller might feel seeing his girlfriend in such a cozy moment with her ex-husband. “He can’t be happy about this,” the insider noted.
Beverly Hills psychiatrist Dr. Carole Lieberman, who has not treated Affleck or Garner, weighed in on the situation, stating that Garner’s continued closeness with Affleck should be a red flag for Miller. “These photos suggest there are still sparks between them,” she said.
Lieberman also pointed out that Garner has always been a stabilizing force in Affleck’s life, particularly during his struggles with sobriety. “She still cares for him deeply, and that emotional bond can be a strong pull,” she added. However, she warned that rekindling an old romance might not be the best idea. “A rebound relationship with Ben wouldn’t last,” she cautioned.
A Complicated History
Affleck and Garner were married for a decade before separating in 2015 and finalizing their divorce in 2018. They share three children—Violet, 19, Seraphina, 16, and Samuel, 13.
Following their divorce, Affleck rekindled his relationship with Jennifer Lopez, marrying her in 2022. However, their marriage ended in 2024 after two years. Garner, on the other hand, has kept a low-profile romance with Miller, rarely addressing their relationship publicly.
While Affleck and Garner have consistently co-parented amicably, their latest display of affection raises the question: Are they just friendly exes, or is there still something more between them?
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.