Let’s face it—Hollywood relationships are often a rollercoaster of highs and lows. And unfortunately, Casey Affleck and Summer Phoenix’s decade-long marriage is officially coming to an end. On Monday, July 31, multiple outlets reported that Summer has filed for divorce after nearly 10 years of marriage. It’s a bittersweet moment for fans who’ve watched this couple grow together over the years.
While Casey and Summer announced their separation back in March 2016, there’s been one surprising twist that came to light this week. Watch the video below to uncover more details about what really went down in their breakup. Spoiler alert: It’s not all bad news!
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Back in 2016, when Casey and Summer first revealed their separation, they made sure to emphasize that things were amicable between them. According to a statement issued through Casey’s rep to People, the pair remained close friends despite parting ways. “Casey Affleck and Summer Phoenix have amicably separated,” the statement read. “They remain very close friends.”
That kind of mutual respect is refreshing in an industry where messy breakups often make headlines. But even with such a positive tone, it’s still tough to see two people who once shared so much together go their separate ways.
Casey and Summer’s love story began way back in 2000 when he started dating Joaquin Phoenix’s younger sister. After six years of dating, the couple welcomed their first child, Indiana, in May 2004. Two years later, they tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in 2006. Their second son, Atticus, followed in January 2008, completing their little family.
For years, Casey and Summer were a picture-perfect Hollywood couple. They attended events together, supported each other’s careers, and seemed genuinely happy. However, their last public appearance together was in 2014, signaling that the end of their relationship might have been brewing for some time.
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Casey and Summer in February 2008.
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Even amidst the challenges of their separation, Casey took a moment to honor Summer during his Golden Globes acceptance speech earlier this year. Winning Best Actor for his role in Manchester by the Sea, Casey dedicated his award to his children and their mother. “Despite how I might think that I’m in charge at my house, it’s my kids that give me permission to do this because they have the strength of character to keep at bay all the noise that surrounds people that live publicly,” he said. “I love you, Indiana and Atticus. Thank you very much. And to their mom, who gave me just about every good acting idea I ever had. Thank you very much, I love you.”
It was a touching moment that highlighted the love and appreciation Casey still holds for Summer, even as they navigate this new chapter in their lives.
Casey’s personal life seems to be following a similar pattern to his older brother Ben Affleck’s recent experiences. Just four months ago, Ben and Jennifer Garner finalized their divorce after being separated for nearly two years. It’s a tough pill to swallow for any family, but Casey and Ben have always been close, so it’s no surprise that their journeys mirror each other in some ways.
While endings can be painful, they also open doors to new beginnings. Here’s hoping both Casey and Summer find happiness in whatever comes next for them.