Ben Affleck says he initially planned to cast his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, as the leading lady in his directorial effort “Animals.” In recounting how the project’s casting shifted, Affleck describes how he originally saw Garner as a strong fit for the role.
Affleck also explains that a scheduling conflict changed the plan. He says that accommodating Garner would have meant he would have to take on the onscreen lead himself, which would put him opposite her. Ultimately, the idea does not move forward, with Affleck saying the situation would have come with “baggage” and that he does not want to do it.
Across the coverage, both outlets frame the same behind-the-scenes casting development: Affleck’s early enthusiasm for a potential onscreen reunion, followed by a change driven by scheduling realities. The articles differ mainly in emphasis—one highlights the remark about the added complication, while the other focuses more on the “musical chairs” nature of the casting process and Affleck’s role as co-writer, director, and star.
“Animals” is set to premiere on Netflix on Oct. 9.
