In his Oscars acceptance speech two years ago Ben Affleck spoke about working on his marriage to Jennifer Garner, and it seems that right up until the end he was trying to save the relationship. The Hollywood heavyweight is said to be "devastated" about the divorce, which the couple announced on Tuesday, sending shockwaves around the celebrity world.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner are to divorce after ten years of marriage
A source told People magazine: "He's devastated. Nobody intends to go down this path.
"They both battled, and he really battled to try and save the marriage but ultimately it was the best thing for the kids and for him and Jen."
For the time being both are still living at their 8,800 sq ft California estate to make the transition easier for their children, Violet, nine, Serafina, six, and Samuel, three.
Jennifer and daughter Violet supporting Ben at a US Senate hearing in March
It is being reported by People that they effectively separated ten months ago. However, during that time they have maintained a united front. In March, Jennifer proudly supported her husband when he made a speech at a US Senate hearing on the importance of foreign aid in Africa.
Along with their eldest daughter Violet, the Dallas Buyers' Club actress sat behind Ben as he testified to a Senate committee in his capacity as the founder of the East Congo initiative.
The mother-of-two also spoke about being "in a mindful place" in their marriage where they were making an effort to spend quality time alone. In December, the two Hollywood stars were pictured doing just that, cuddling as they walked along chatting.
For now both are still living at the sprawling California property they bought in 2009
However, the 42-year-old also opened up about the juggling needed to manage two high-profile careers, especially Ben's.
"Ben is super busy and I'm super happy for him," she said. "I chose to stay home this year and just said, 'Go for it babe. Do it all. Do Gone Girl, do Batman, do The Accountant. Do everything.'
"I want that for him and I'm happy for him. And he says the same to me. Except that he's really busy. But he understands that when I really have to do it, we figure it out."