# Ben Affleck Almost Cast Ex-Wife Jennifer Garner in 'Animals'

> Ben Affleck nearly cast ex-wife Jennifer Garner in 'Animals' before rejecting the idea.
- Title: Ben Affleck Almost Cast Ex-Wife Jennifer Garner in 'Animals'
- Summary: Ben Affleck nearly cast ex-wife Jennifer Garner in 'Animals' before rejecting the idea. Ben Affleck initially wanted to cast his ex-wife Jennifer Garner in…
- Keywords: ben affleck, jennifer garner, animals, film, scheduling conflict, ex-wife, entertainment, culture, Ben, Affleck, Almost, Cast
- Source: Variety — https://variety.com/2026/film/news/ben-affleck-ex-jennifer-garner-as-his-wife-in-animals-1236870451
- Author: Isabelle Farina
- Published: 2026-09-20T21:27:54+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ben affleck, jennifer garner, animals, film, scheduling conflict, ex-wife, entertainment, culture
## Ben Affleck's initial idea
Ben Affleck originally wanted to cast his ex-wife Jennifer Garner as the leading lady in his film 'Animals'.
## Scheduling conflict reason
A scheduling conflict meant he'd have to step into the role opposite her.
## Affleck's quote
I thought, God, Jen Garner would be amazing for this role.

> I thought, God, Jen Garner would be amazing for this role
## Scheduling benefit
He thought both of them would see their kids more because they'd do a week and a week and back and forth.
## Affleck's decision
He abandoned the idea after realizing they'd get baggage from the role.
## Key takeaway

Ben Affleck initially wanted to cast his ex-wife Jennifer Garner in his film 'Animals' but abandoned the idea due to scheduling conflicts.