Ben Affleck is opening up about co-parenting with his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, and jokingly admitting that he struggles to match her parenting skills. During an October 11 interview with Willie Geist on Sunday TODAY, the actor praised Garner as an exceptional mother while sharing a humorous story about how their children judge his efforts. The former couple share three children: Violet, 20, Fin, 17, and Samuel, 14. Although their marriage ended years ago, Affleck’s comments suggest that he continues to appreciate Garner’s role in their children’s lives.
Affleck explained that Garner sets an incredibly high standard as a parent, making him feel as though he sometimes falls short. He recalled telling their children that he believed he was doing approximately 75% as well as their mother. Their response was considerably less flattering, reportedly placing his parenting performance closer to 40%. Laughing about the exchange, Affleck joked that he was already giving everything he had, describing his efforts as earning a B-plus. Despite the playful comparison, he made it clear that he deeply respects Garner and appreciates everything she does for their family.
The former couple married in 2005, announced their separation in 2015, and finalized their divorce in 2018. Since then, they have continued raising their children together while maintaining separate lives. Affleck described their custody arrangement as alternating weeks, with the children spending one week with him and the following week with Garner. Their routine includes everyday responsibilities such as school pickups, preparing dinner, and making time together when the children are available. For Affleck, these ordinary family moments have become an important part of his life, even while he continues working on major film projects.
Affleck also explained that his children influence his professional decisions. Because they live in Los Angeles, he prefers to make films there whenever possible rather than accepting work that would keep him away for extended periods. He acknowledged that having the freedom to choose where he works is a privilege that many people in the entertainment industry do not enjoy. Nevertheless, he wants to make the most of the time he has with his children while they are still growing up. His comments reveal that fatherhood remains a major priority despite his demanding career.
Garner has also publicly acknowledged Affleck’s relationship with their children. On Father’s Day in June, she shared family photographs and praised the affection their children have for their father. Her message highlighted the importance of having a loving parent in a child’s life. Together, their comments suggest that their shared commitment to their children remains central to their relationship as co-parents. While Affleck may joke about receiving a lower parenting score, his appreciation for Garner and determination to remain present in his children’s lives reveal a more meaningful measure of success.
