Chris Affleck, the mother of Oscar-winning actors Ben and Casey Affleck, died June 2 at age 83 following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. The family announced her passing through representatives.
Affleck worked as a schoolteacher throughout her career. She raised two sons who became major forces in Hollywood. Ben Affleck won the Academy Award for Best Picture as a producer of "Argo" in 2013 and earned a Best Director nomination for "Gone Girl." Casey Affleck took home the Oscar for Best Actor in 2017 for his performance in "Manchester by the Sea," a role that cemented his status as a serious dramatic talent after years of acclaimed indie films and supporting parts in major studio productions.
The Affleck brothers have spoken publicly about their mother's influence on their careers and values. Both have built substantial careers in film, with Ben also directing major studio tentpoles like "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" and "Justice League," while Casey has maintained a more selective approach to roles, appearing in projects like the "Ocean's" franchise and prestige dramas.
Chris Affleck's death marks the loss of a figure who shaped two of contemporary cinema's most prominent actors during a period when they were establishing themselves in Hollywood. Her teaching background reflected values of education and discipline that both sons have referenced when discussing their upbringing in Massachusetts.
The Affleck family has faced significant personal challenges in recent years, including Ben's public health battles and family transitions. Chris Affleck's passing adds another profound loss to the family's recent history. Both Ben and Casey have credited their parents with grounding them amid the volatility of the entertainment industry, with their mother's steady presence serving as an anchor throughout their respective rises to prominence and award recognition.