Affleck says Garner declined Netflix film role over 'baggage'

Ben Affleck has explained why his ex-wife Jennifer Garner is not starring in his upcoming Netflix thriller, Animals. The film, which Affleck directs and co-writes, follows a Los Angeles mayoral candidate and his wife as they navigate the kidnapping of their son. Garner was originally cast as the candidate's wife, with Matt Damon set to play the lead role. According to Affleck, the casting plan changed when Damon exited the project due to scheduling conflicts with another film, The Odyssey. Affleck then decided to take over the lead role himself. This shift meant he and Garner would have portrayed a married couple on screen, a prospect Garner declined. Affleck recounted the conversation in an interview published on September 14. "I talked to Jen, and she was like, 'We don't wanna do that. You just get baggage,'" Affleck said. He explained that the decision was made to avoid the audience's perception of their real-life history influencing the on-screen dynamic. Following Garner's exit, the role was recast with Kerry Washington. Affleck praised Washington, saying she was "amazing for this" and highlighting her polished yet warm presence.