Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner came together to celebrate their son Samuel’s 13th birthday on February 27 with an exciting paintball party in Los Angeles. The event, which brought the former couple and their son’s friends together, also caught the attention of fans who noticed a visible change in Affleck’s mood.
Dressed in full paintball gear, including camouflage outfits, helmets, and paintball guns, the exes joined the fun-filled day, laughing and smiling as they participated. Garner kept things casual in loose denim overalls and a navy long-sleeve top, her hair pulled back in a ponytail. Affleck, on the other hand, opted for a relaxed look with jeans, a green button-down shirt, a matching jacket, and brown lace-up boots.
The duo even teamed up during the game, taking cover behind a structure while dodging paintballs. In one lighthearted moment, Affleck put his arm around Garner while preparing to fire, though she remained focused on the game.
Fans couldn’t help but notice Affleck’s unusually cheerful demeanor. The actor, often seen with a serious expression, was grinning and visibly enjoying himself. Social media users quickly reacted, with one person commenting, “He always looks happier and more relaxed when he’s with her ❤️.” Another added, “This is the first time he actually looks happy.” Some even described the sight as refreshing, with one admirer noting, “He’s finally smiling!”
However, not everyone was convinced that the moment was purely innocent, with some wondering how Garner’s current partner, John Miller, might feel about their dynamic. One person speculated, “That doesn’t seem like co-parenting… Poor Miller, all the humiliation he has to endure.”
Affleck and Garner, who tied the knot in 2005, finalized their divorce in 2018 but have remained amicable co-parents. After their split, Affleck rekindled his romance with Jennifer Lopez, whom he later married in July 2022. However, their marriage ended after just two years when Lopez filed for divorce.
Meanwhile, Garner took her time moving forward after the divorce. A source previously shared that she patiently waited for Affleck to complete his rehab treatment before officially closing that chapter of her life.
“Jen doesn’t want to be single forever, so she’s open to dating,” the insider revealed. “She’s been on dates, but nothing too serious. Her main focus remains her kids and career.”
Eventually, Garner found love again with businessman John Miller. Their relationship developed at a steady pace, with Garner staying out of the spotlight despite Affleck’s highly publicized romances. Even when news of Affleck and Lopez’s split surfaced, a source revealed that Garner remained focused on her own life, emphasizing, “She’s happy with John.”
Garner and Miller’s romance has been a mix of private moments and occasional public outings. In 2023, the couple was spotted holding hands during a casual lunch date in Santa Monica, a rare sighting that delighted fans.
Supporters of the actress expressed their happiness for her, with one writing, “Good for her for finding love again,” while another noted, “They make a beautiful couple.”
Though they keep their relationship private, their subtle displays of affection have not gone unnoticed. On their Santa Monica outing, Garner exuded effortless style in a gray top, black skirt, tights, and loafers, complemented by a warm smile. Miller kept it relaxed yet polished in a blue plaid shirt, jeans, and brown boots.
Like Garner, Miller also experienced divorce. He was previously married to violinist Caroline Campbell, with whom he shares two children. Despite their past relationships, Garner and Miller have found comfort in each other and continue to maintain a low-profile romance, choosing to keep their personal lives away from public scrutiny.