Jennifer Garner’s mom Patricia Garner has become a fan favorite thanks to her appearances on the actress’s “Pretend Cooking Show,” where the mother-daughter duo regularly shares candid, often funny moments in the kitchen.
While Garner is best known for her Hollywood career, her mom has drawn attention in recent years for her warmth, humor and no-nonsense personality. From her humble upbringing to her life as a longtime educator and parent, Patricia has played a major role in shaping Garner’s life.
In recent years, her appearances have helped introduce her to a wider audience beyond her daughter’s fans.
Here are five things to know about Patricia.
Getty1. She grew up on a farm without electricity or running water
Patricia Garner grew up in Locust Grove, Oklahoma, where her family lived on a farm without electricity, running water or indoor plumbing.
According to People, her father purchased the property with a veteran bonus in 1936.
Despite those challenges, Jennifer Garner has often spoken about the resilience and perspective her mother’s upbringing instilled.
2. She was married to her husband for nearly 60 years
Patricia married William Garner in 1965, and the couple remained together for almost six decades.
They raised three daughters — Melissa, Jennifer and Susannah — in West Virginia, building a close-knit family centered on education and hard work.
Garner has frequently credited her parents’ long marriage as a foundation for her values.
3. She went back to school and built a career in education
After raising her children, Patricia returned to school and earned a master’s degree.
She later worked as a teacher, reinforcing the importance of education in the Garner household.
Jennifer has said her mother always believed in having a purpose beyond the home, even while raising a family.
4. She started working out at age 80
Patricia began a fitness routine at 80 and committed to regular workouts that included strength training, walking and balance exercises.
In 2021, Jennifer Garner shared that her mom had become “an expert,” highlighting her dedication to staying active later in life.
5. She became a breakout presence on the ‘Pretend Cooking Show’
Patricia has become a familiar face on Garner’s “Pretend Cooking Show,” the actress’s popular Instagram series.
The videos show the mother-daughter duo cooking together, often with candid commentary and playful back-and-forth.
According to People, Patricia regularly appears in the videos and isn’t afraid to give her daughter a “hard time,” a dynamic that fans have embraced.
