While the glitz and glamour of the 2025 Academy Awards captured the attention of Hollywood’s elite, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner chose to celebrate their son Samuel’s birthday with a more down-to-earth approach on March 2, 2025. The former couple was spotted at a paintball park in Los Angeles, where laughter and good spirits filled the air as they participated fully in the day’s festivities.
Samuel turned 13 on February 27, 2025, and his parents made it clear where their priorities lay as they dedicated the day to celebrating this important milestone. According to Page Six, photographs from the event revealed Affleck and Garner, dressed appropriately for paintball, enjoying quality time with their son and his friends. This family outing reflects the amicable relationship the duo has maintained since their divorce.
“They’re on great terms,” reported People, quoting sources familiar with the family dynamics. “Jen's very happy with Ben. He spends a lot of time with the kids.” Such sentiments were evident during the celebration. The actors were seen smiling and chatting, appearing at ease as they took on the paintball challenge with their son.
Affleck, who has had his share of both triumphs and trials, has also recently finalized his divorce from Jennifer Lopez, and it appears he is focused on being present for his children. The Star of Argo and Good Will Hunting, known for his Oscar-winning talents, was fully engaged during the paintball party, reveling not just as Samuel's dad but as someone who genuinely enjoys spending this time with his family.
Jennifer Garner, similarly, has been vocal about her interest in their children's lives, stating, “I’m just watching them in this new phase of life where they’re figuring out who they’re going to be and what they’re going to study. And I’m so interested in everything about them.” Her reflection highlights not only the bond they share with their children but also her joy and concern about them growing up.
Of their three children, Samuel, Violet, 19, and Seraphina, 16, Garner has expressed optimism about their current status: “They’re really solid right now,” she said, emphasizing their well-being as they transition through the challenges and excitements of adolescence.
Even their collective commitment to family was made apparent during the party, as Affleck and Garner navigated the exciting chaos typical of young birthday parties. The two were seen cheering on their son as he engaged with friends, dressed in matching paintball gear and helmets — capturing the essence of family fun.
Not only did Affleck showcase his family-first attitude during the party, but he has also made headlines for being spotted courtside at the Los Angeles Lakers game on Samuel’s birthday, bringing their shared experiences full circle by indulging the interests of their oldest child. Both parents are actively involved, showing up for various aspects of their children's lives, whether it be sports or birthdays.
Affleck’s relationship with Garner remains one of collaborative co-parenting, shining light on how amicably they’ve managed the transition from partners to supportive co-parents. “She makes him laugh like no one else can. She seems happy Ben's happy,” noted another friend of the family, reinforcing how positive their interactions have been, especially post-divorce.
The bond between Affleck and Garner extends beyond just playful paintball celebrations; they have been spotted together previously, such as during philanthropic efforts at Thanksgiving with the Midnight Mission, where they worked together to serve meals to those less fortunate, showcasing their commitment to community values.
Despite the backdrop of their past relationships and individual pursuits, such as Garner’s on-and-off relationship with CEO John Miller, they remain united when it matters most — for their children. Garner's efforts to maintain consistency and love for their children can be seen through her candidness about parenting struggles and revelations learned from her own mother, enhancing her perspective.
Garner expressed, "My mom always says when they're being the worst, that's when they need the biggest hug." This approach reflects her nurturing style, certainly impacting the atmosphere of their family gatherings and celebrations.
With Samuel marking the threshold of his teenage years, the family dynamic looks promising as all three children navigate their own paths through life with the guidance of two supportive parents. Whether focusing on academics, leisure, or friendships, the backdrop of laughter and love evident at Samuel's birthday signifies the stability Affleck and Garner have cultivated post-marriage.
Affleck, now officially single and enjoying casual dating, along with Garner managing her relationship with Miller, they both seem steadfast on prioritizing their children’s needs and happiness above all. The peace, fun, and mutual respect seen during the paintball event serve as proof of the sustained bond they cherish as co-parents, defining what family truly means for them today.
The road to co-parenting can be challenging, yet Affleck and Garner have shown through actions and shared moments how love can prevail, regardless of life’s twists and turns. Their paintball outing not only marked Samuel's birthday but was also emblematic of how family remains central to their lives, demonstrating joy and hope for future celebrations together.