New details are emerging about the tumultuous romance between Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck, revealing how their relationship, which spanned from 1997 to 2000, ultimately crumbled due to personal struggles and differing priorities.
The Rise and Fall of a Hollywood Couple
Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck were a power couple in the late 90s, with their relationship beginning shortly after Paltrow’s high-profile split from Brad Pitt. Affleck was then on the cusp of superstardom with the release of “Good Will Hunting,” a film he co-wrote and starred in with Matt Damon.
Despite their outward glamour, a new biography by Amy Odell, “Gwyneth: The Biography,” sheds light on the behind-the-scenes struggles that plagued their love story. While friends reportedly saw Affleck as an intellectual match for Paltrow, he was battling personal issues that deeply affected their bond.
Unpacking Ben’s “Demons”
According to Odell’s book, Affleck was grappling with alcoholism and a gambling habit around the time he and Paltrow began dating. Friends of the “Emma” star expressed concerns that Affleck often failed to reciprocate her affection and seemed more interested in playing video games with his friends than spending quality time with her.
The biography paints a picture of Paltrow making considerable effort, including cooking dinner for Affleck daily, only for him to still prefer going out with his friends. One friend even likened his behavior to “the guys in Entourage,” highlighting a significant disconnect in their relationship expectations.
Chemistry Couldn’t Conquer All
Despite the challenges, Paltrow openly spoke about their strong physical connection. In a 2023 podcast, she famously described their bedroom chemistry, calling Affleck “technically excellent,” especially when comparing him to ex Brad Pitt, whom she referred to as the “major chemistry, love of your life” type.
However, the book suggests that even this intense physical chemistry wasn’t enough to overcome Affleck’s “self-destructive impulses.” The couple eventually called it quits around the time Paltrow was filming “Shakespeare in Love.”
Lingering Hints and Post-Breakup Reflections
In the wake of their split, Paltrow made a telling remark, allegedly stating, “I love men, even though they’re lying, cheating scumbags.” While not directly accusing Affleck, the comment hinted at infidelity playing a role in their breakup.
Years later, in 2015, Paltrow offered a more direct assessment, telling Entertainment Tonight that Affleck “wasn’t in a good place in his life to have a girlfriend.” Despite the difficulties, Paltrow’s parents were reportedly fond of Affleck, recognizing him as “super intelligent, really, really talented, and so funny.” Ultimately, however, they agreed that the breakup was for the best.
Life After “Benneth”
Following their split, both stars moved on to other significant relationships. Gwyneth Paltrow married Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, with whom she shares two children, and later wed producer Brad Falchuk. Ben Affleck married Jennifer Garner, fathered three children, and after their divorce, rekindled his romance and married Jennifer Lopez, whom he recently divorced again.
Affleck has since been vocal about his journey to sobriety, crediting fatherhood as a major motivator. Despite their past, Paltrow and Affleck remained friends and even co-starred in the 2000 film “Bounce,” showing a maturity beyond their youthful romance.
- Ben Affleck’s struggles with alcoholism and gambling reportedly strained his relationship with Gwyneth Paltrow.
- Friends observed a lack of reciprocation and differing priorities from Affleck during their three-year romance.
- Paltrow hinted at infidelity as a factor in their breakup, though she acknowledged Affleck’s intelligence and humor.
The new biography provides a deeper look into the complexities of a relationship that captivated Hollywood and left a lasting mark on both stars’ personal histories.
