Chris Anne Affleck, mother of actors Ben Affleck and Casey Affleck, passed away at the age of 83 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. She died peacefully in her sleep on June 2, nearly six months after being diagnosed in December 2025, according to an obituary published on July 24. Affleck’s life was marked by a commitment to justice, and she took pride not only in her sons’ achievements but also in their willingness to challenge and engage with authority. She is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren.

Palestinian writer and Pulitzer Prize winner Mosab Abu Toha described Affleck as a close family friend and highlighted her advocacy for Palestine, noting that many knew her primarily as the mother of Ben and Casey Affleck but were less aware of her steadfast support for the Palestinian cause.

Separately, American actor John Cusack has spoken about his recent decision to step away from large-scale film projects in favor of pursuing other creative outlets. In an interview ahead of his appearance at San Diego Comic-Con 2026, Cusack discussed his involvement in the creation of a graphic novel called "Momo," which he co-created with artist Ignacio Noe. Cusack cited the appeal of having complete creative control without external editing or interference, a contrast to the financial and collaborative pressures that often accompany major film productions.

“The financial stakes in filmmaking usually prompt investors to exert influence over the final product,” Cusack explained. “I didn’t want to negotiate telling a story. When you’re asking someone to provide $20 to $30 million, they want to have an opinion.” He described graphic novels as a unique storytelling medium that offers a cinematic experience through visual narrative, likening the selection of frames and shots to film direction.

“Momo,” published by Mad Cave Studios and set for release on September 29, follows two fugitives in 1972 on a sci-fi and politically charged quest for an ancient artifact. Cusack noted that working on the graphic novel was an “anti-algorithm” endeavor, free from committee decisions or reliance on computer-driven market testing.

In recent years, Cusack’s screen appearances have been fewer, and he indicated that the graphic novel format offered a level of creative independence he had been seeking. “There’s no bull, no committee, no computer up in Seattle poll-testing it,” he said, emphasizing the freedom and authenticity of the project.