Ben Affleck was born on August 15, 1972, in Berkeley, California. He was raised by his mother, Christine Anne Affleck, who was a freedom rider, and his father Tim Affleck, who worked as a social worker, drug counselor, and actor. Affleck has a younger brother, actor Casey Affleck, with whom he shares a close bond.
Affleck studied Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Vermont, where he developed a deep interest in the region's history and culture. However, his passion for acting soon took over, and he decided to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Affleck's big break came in the early 1990s when he starred in the cult classic film "Dazed and Confused." He quickly became known for his charisma and on-screen presence, leading to roles in films like "Mallrats" and "Chasing Amy."
He gained widespread recognition for his performances in blockbuster hits such as "Armageddon" and "Pearl Harbor." Affleck's versatility as an actor was evident as he effortlessly transitioned between action-packed roles and more nuanced characters.
One of Affleck's most significant career milestones came in 1997 when he co-wrote and starred in the critically acclaimed film "Good Will Hunting" alongside his longtime friend Matt Damon. The movie earned the duo an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, solidifying their status as Hollywood's rising stars.
Affleck continued to showcase his acting talent in films like "The Town" and "Argo," the latter of which he also directed and produced. His work on "Argo" earned him an Academy Award for Best Picture, further establishing him as a multi-talented force in the industry.
Affleck's personal life has been the subject of much media attention over the years. He married actress Jennifer Garner in June 2005, and the couple welcomed three children together: Samuel, Violet, and Seraphina. Despite their public image as a happy family, Affleck and Garner announced their divorce in 2015.
Following his divorce from Garner, Affleck dated Lindsay Shookus from 2017 to 2019 before entering a relationship with actress Ana de Armas in early 2020. The couple split up in January 2021. Affleck has also had a high-profile relationship with singer and actress Jennifer Lopez, with whom he became engaged in 2002 and reunited with in 2021. The couple tied the knot in a surprise ceremony in Las Vegas in July 2022.
Affleck's influence on the entertainment industry extends beyond his on-screen performances. He has collaborated with acclaimed directors like Kevin Smith and continues to take on challenging roles that showcase his talent and versatility as an actor.
Whether he's portraying a superhero in a big-budget blockbuster or delving into complex character studies, Affleck's dedication to his craft and his ability to captivate audiences have solidified his place as a Hollywood icon.