Ben Affleck has paid tribute to his family and estranged wife Jennifer Garner in an emotional statement, revealing for the very first time that he has completed treatment for alcohol addiction.
The 44-year-old Oscar-winner took to his official Facebook page late last night to share an insight into this challenging time in his life.
“I have completed treatment for alcohol addiction; something I’ve dealt with in the past and will continue to confront,” he began.
Ben, who is a father-of-three, made reference to his role as a father to 11-year-old Violet, eight-year-old Seraphina, and five-year-old Samuel throughout the touching statement.
“I want to live life to the fullest and be the best father I can be. I want my kids to know there is no shame in getting help when you need it, and to be a source of strength for anyone out there who needs help but is afraid to take the first step.”
The Gone Girl star also paid tribute to his estranged wife, Jennifer, whom he refers to as his ‘co-parent’. The former couple announced their plans to divorce back in 2015, after 10 years of marriage, but recent reports suggest that this has now been called off.
Referring to his Daredevil co-star, Ben added: “I’m lucky to have the love of my family and friends, including my co-parent, Jen, who has supported me and cared for our kids as I’ve done the work I set out to do. This was the first of many steps being taken towards a positive recovery.”
The actor has since received a flood of supportive messages from fans and followers around the world, with many praising his honesty and bravery in sharing such a personal insight with the public.
“I am sure that I speak for millions of people when I say that you have taken honour and dignity to a new level. You have continued to show you’re a good man, and good men struggle,” wrote one follower.
Elsewhere, another fan wrote: “Congratulations, Ben; one step closer to being the man you want to be and the father your children and family deserve. God bless.”
