Fans were thrilled to see a smiling Ben Affleck spending time with his child and ex-wife. This family moment occurred just hours before Jennifer Lopez filed for divorce. On the morning of August 20, Ben was seen in high spirits as he stepped off a private jet in Los Angeles, accompanied by his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, and their teenager, Fin Affleck. Fans noted how happy he seemed, sharing their thoughts and hopes for the actor and his relationship with Garner.

Ben, dressed in a white shirt, navy pants, and sunglasses, looked joyful as he disembarked from the aircraft, carrying a black bag in one hand and a blazer over his arm. His return came after reportedly dropping off his eldest daughter, Violet, at college in Connecticut. Fin, who followed behind, wore a Yale sweater, seemingly confirming that Violet is attending the prestigious university. Garner, Ben’s ex-wife, matched their casual style in a black top and green pants. The family was seen organizing their luggage and driving off together in a BMW.

The family outing occurred on the same day that Ben’s estranged wife, Jennifer Lopez, filed for divorce, which also marked their two-year wedding anniversary. Despite the optics, many fans were happy to see Ben enjoying time with his family. Some even suggested that his cheerful demeanor indicated relief about the end of his relationship with Lopez. Instagram users expressed their thoughts, with one saying, “He looks relieved,” while another noted, “He’s so happy. I’ve never seen him smile like that.”

Many fans hoped to see Ben rekindle his relationship with Garner, commenting that he seemed happiest around her. Some even suggested that he should return to his family and remain with them. Speculation arose, with some fans theorizing that Garner’s rumored relationship was just a cover for her continued connection with Ben.

Five days before this family moment, Garner was spotted visiting Ben at his home in Brentwood, California, on his 52nd birthday. She arrived casually dressed, and video footage captured her waiting to be let in at the gate. She was later seen leaving the house after her visit. Meanwhile, media outlets reported that Jennifer Lopez had posted throwback photos of her own birthday on the same day Ben celebrated his.

Lopez also visited Ben on his birthday, but just five days later, she filed for divorce, officially marking the end of their two-year marriage. She submitted the paperwork on August 20, the anniversary of their Georgia wedding. Despite their separation, it was revealed that Lopez had filed the divorce documents herself, opting for a “pro per” filing, indicating her desire to handle the process independently. She waived her right to spousal support and requested that the court deny Ben any support as well.

Reports indicated that Ben and Lopez did not have a prenuptial agreement, meaning any earnings or assets acquired during their marriage would be considered community property. Despite their wealth and previous marriages, the couple chose not to protect their finances with a prenup. Marilyn Chinitz, a divorce lawyer, commented that Lopez’s decision to proceed without a lawyer was a significant statement of her determination to move forward.

Although the divorce has been filed, Ben and Lopez still need to resolve their financial settlement. Their shared Beverly Hills home remains on the market, with negotiations reportedly tense. The couple, once known as “Bennifer,” had captivated the media since their rekindled romance in 2021. Over the years, they were often seen together, attending public events and supporting each other’s projects.

Lopez’s latest album, This Is Me … Now, was inspired by her relationship with Ben, and fans followed their love story through social media updates. However, in May, Lopez unexpectedly canceled her summer tour to spend more time with her family, foreshadowing their eventual split.

As the divorce unfolded, Lopez was seen at a Bruno Mars concert on Ben’s birthday, dancing energetically to the song “Marry You.” The video sparked online debate, with some questioning her emotional state. Critics accused her of seeking attention, while others supported her for enjoying herself and embracing her single life. Fans encouraged Lopez to live life on her own terms, celebrating her happiness and urging her to move forward, with or without Ben.