Hollywood star Ben Affleck recently revealed the real reason why he quit playing Batman. In an emotional statement, the Oscar winner explained that his struggles with alcoholism, his divorce from actress Jennifer Garner and the difficult experience of filming Justice League were factors in his difficult decision.
Affleck stated that during the production of ‘The Batman’, someone close to him expressed concerns about the toll it could take on his well-being. They said, “I think the script is good. I also think you’ll drink yourself to death if you go through what you just went through again.” These words struck a chord with Affleck, highlighting the importance of taking care of oneself and prioritizing mental health.
The Journey of Batman
Affleck first donned the cape and cowl in 2016’s “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” and later made appearances as Batman in the uncredited role in “Suicide Squad” the same year. However, “Justice League” marked his final performance as the Caped Crusader. Following his departure, director Matt Reeves took over and Robert Pattinson stepped into the role of Batman in the upcoming film.
Battling Alcoholism and Seeking Support
The 47-year-old actor has been open about his battle with alcoholism, but has been relatively quiet since completing rehab in 2018. After going through a rough patch, Affleck sought help at the behest of his ex-wife , Jennifer Garner. She credits the support she received from friends and co-stars Bradley Cooper and Robert Downey Jr. as a source of strength during her sobriety journey.
Affleck candidly reflected on his journey and admitted that relapse is difficult and embarrassing. He wishes it hadn’t been a public spectacle for his children to witness. He recognized that his drinking escalated during the rough patch in his marriage, leading to additional problems. Affleck expressed deep remorse over his divorce from Garner, calling it the “biggest regret” of his life.
Overcoming Shame and Embracing Recovery
Shame is a toxic emotion that Affleck has learned to deal with as part of his recovery process. He recognized that shame serves no good purpose and only fosters low self-esteem and self-loathing. But he stressed the importance of being honest, taking responsibility and admitting mistakes. These are the core values he adhered to on his journey to sobriety.
Moving Forward
While Affleck’s decision to step away from ‘The Batman’ was difficult, he has remained committed to his craft. His upcoming film, “The Way Back,” portrays a former basketball all-star struggling with alcohol addiction. The character finds redemption as he becomes the coach of a high school basketball team in an effort to make a comeback. Reflecting on his personal experiences, Affleck hopes his role will inspire and resonate with audiences facing their own battles.
Conclusion
In sharing his story, Ben Affleck has shed light on the personal struggles that led to his departure from the role of Batman. His journey of overcoming alcoholism and navigating the challenges of life and relationships serves as a reminder that everyone has their own battles to fight. Affleck’s openness about his regrets and his commitment to recovery will undoubtedly resonate with many, offering hope and inspiration to those facing similar struggles.
