Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner have filed for divorce after a two year separation.
TMZ reports that the Hollywood couple, who have been married for 12 years, both filed the necessary documents at the same time, without a lawyer, suggesting that the proceedings could not be more amicable. It’s thought that the pair will seek joint legal and physical custody of their three children: Violet, 11, Seraphina, eight, and Samuel, five.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Jennifer and Ben had decided to call off their divorce, but a source has now explained to People that the couple ‘always planned to divorce despite what people said. If you look at their first statement it says divorce not separate. They just did it the way they wanted to and did what was best for their kids.’
‘There was no catalyst, it was just time. Nothing has changed, they are and still will be putting their kids first.’
Ben and Jennifer confirmed their separation in summer 2015, one day after their tenth wedding anniversary, in a statement which emphasised their abiding ‘love and friendship for one another and a commitment to co-parenting [their] children.’
Since then, the couple have regularly sparked rumours of a reconciliation, continuing to live together and go on holiday as a family.
TMZ adds that the case is unlikely to be handled in court, and the divorce could be finalised as soon as six months from now.
Last month, Ben revealed that he had recently completed treatment for alcohol addiction, which he described as ‘something I’ve dealt with in the past and will continue to confront.’
‘I want to live life to the fullest and be the best father I can be,’ he added. ‘I want my kids to know there is no shame in getting help when you need it, and to be a source of strength for anyone out there who needs help but is afraid to take the first step.’
He went on to thank his ‘family and friends, including [his] co-parent, Jen,’ for their support during the rehab process.