Ben Affleck Reconsidered Casting Ex-wife Jennifer Garner in Film

WHO:

Variety - Ben Affleck is the co-writer, director, and star of the film "Animals."

Variety - Jennifer Garner is Affleck's ex-wife and was considered for the leading role.

WHAT:

Variety - Affleck originally wanted to cast Garner in "Animals."

Deadline - The film "Animals" is set to premiere on Netflix on Oct. 9.

WHY:

Variety - Affleck believed Garner would be "amazing for this role."

Deadline - Affleck decided against casting Garner due to the "baggage" that comes with their past relationship.

HOW:

Variety - Affleck had to step into the lead role opposite Garner due to a scheduling conflict.

(UPDATED September 20, 2026 22:58 UTC)

Ben Affleck is taking on multiple roles as the co-writer, director, and star of the upcoming film "Animals," which is set to premiere on Netflix on October 9. Although he initially wanted to cast his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, in the leading role, he ultimately decided against it due to the "baggage" from their past relationship, leading him to step into the lead role himself. Affleck believed Garner would have been "amazing for this role," but a scheduling conflict made the casting impossible.