Matt Damon on family, marriage and “The Odyssey” amid new film release

Actor Matt Damon, 55, has spoken about entering a new life phase as his two eldest daughters move out and his younger children approach adulthood. He and wife Luciana Barroso, married since 2005, keep a nightly family dinner as a "non‑negotiable" ritual, though Damon admits the habit can become routine and that they strive to be fully present with their four daughters – Alexia (27), Isabella (20), Gia (17) and Stella (15). He says the experience of watching his children grow makes him mindful of the moment and has prompted him to focus on “presence” and mindfulness.

Damon also highlighted his long‑standing friendship with Ben Affleck, describing Affleck as “one of the great loves of my life.” He recounted Affleck’s emotional phone call after seeing Damon’s performance in Christopher Nolan’s new film "The Odyssey," and noted his daughters’ reactions to his on‑screen beard. Across several interviews, Damon emphasized that parenting, marriage and his career – now featuring the lead role of Odysseus – are intertwined, and that staying emotionally connected with his family remains a priority.