Today is a sad day in Hollywood as reports confirm that one of the industry's most lovable and admirable couple, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, have called it quits following a decade of marriage. While the news undoubtedly devastated the fans and followers of the two, an official statement from their representatives urged the public to give the spouses the much needed privacy they crave during this trying period.
"After much thought and careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to divorce," wrote the couple in a statement sent to People Magazine. As testament to Affleck and Garner's once beautiful marital union, the two disclosed that the decision to go their separate ways will not blemish the way they intend to deal with each other as individuals and as co-parents to their three children, namely, Violet, 9, Seraphina, 6, and Samuel, 3.
They added, "We go forward with love and friendship for one another and a commitment to co-parenting our children whose privacy we ask to be respected during this difficult time." Pointing out that no further discussion regarding their separation will be broadcasted after the release of their joint statement, the couple sought the understanding of their fans and loved ones with regard their reluctance to divulge more details. They ended the statement with, "This will be our only comment on this private, family matter. Thank you for understanding."
Although the couple announced their intention to file for divorce, TMZ reports that the process will not be commenced right away. According to the sources of the media outlet, both Affleck and Garner want to prioritize the issues concerning their properties before officially filing the divorce papers. With regard the custody of their three children, the two intend to pursue a joint custody. TMZ also reveals that the couple are working with business managers and a mediator to settle matters as peacefully and amicably as possible.
While the news of their separation took the world by surprise, The Daily Beast points out that the recent events involving the couple may have indicated that Affleck and Garner are heading for a divorce. The report noted that the "Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice" star was seen in Canada sans his family on his wife's birthday. The same situation was noted during Mother's Day. Earlier this year, Affleck was spotted gambling and "looking slightly worse for the wear" in Las Vegas while Garner was photographed running errands on the same day.
As the two go their separate paths, a source close to the couple reveals that Garner might go back to acting. "Jen is excited to get back to work," says the insider, according to Fox News. The source adds, "She took a step back to focus on her marriage and family but wants to return to making more movies."
