Major Controversies Surrounding Ben Affleck: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Ben Affleck.

Ben Affleck is an accomplished American actor and filmmaker, recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards and two BAFTAs. He embarked on his acting journey as a child, featuring in the PBS series "The Voyage of the Mimi." He gained further recognition through roles in independent films like "Dazed and Confused" and collaborations with Kevin Smith in comedies such as "Chasing Amy."

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1997: Rose McGowan's allegations and Affleck's response

In 1997, Rose McGowan claimed she met Affleck after allegedly being sexually assaulted by Harvey Weinstein during the Sundance Film Festival, and told him about it. In response to allegations against Weinstein in 2017, Affleck pledged to donate future profits from Miramax films. McGowan criticized Affleck's response.

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2003: Criticizing the Patriot Act

In 2003, Ben Affleck criticized the "questionable and aggressive" use of the Patriot Act and the resulting "encroachments on civil liberties".

2003: Increased Media Attention

In 2003, Ben Affleck was the subject of increased media attention because of his relationship with Jennifer Lopez, leading to him being considered the "world's most over-exposed actor" by GQ.

2003: Hilarie Burton's accusation of inappropriate behavior

In 2003, Hilarie Burton stated that Ben Affleck "wraps his arm around me, and comes over and tweaks my left boob" during an on-air appearance on TRL Uncensored. Affleck responded on Twitter: "I acted inappropriately toward Ms. Burton and I sincerely apologize."

2008: Expressing Concern About Obama Conspiracy Theories

In 2008, Ben Affleck expressed concern about conspiracy theories claiming that Barack Obama was an Arab or a Muslim, criticizing the acceptance of these claims as slurs.

2009: Denouncing Israeli Invasion of Gaza

In 2009, a reporter for The Washington Post overheard Ben Affleck denouncing the Israeli invasion of Gaza at a Washington party. Steven Clemons noted that Affleck listened to alternative viewpoints and presented reasoned arguments.

2014: Annamarie Tendler's accusation

In 2014, Annamarie Tendler accused Affleck of grabbing her ass at a Golden Globes party.

2014: Finding Your Roots appearance

In 2014, Ben Affleck appeared on the PBS genealogy series Finding Your Roots and learned that an ancestor had been a slave owner in Georgia, which made him uncomfortable.

2014: Appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher

In 2014, Ben Affleck engaged in a widely-shared discussion about the relationship between liberal principles and Islam during an appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher.

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2015: Sony email hacking scandal and Affleck's discomfort with genealogy segment

In 2015, leaked emails from the Sony email hacking scandal revealed that Ben Affleck felt uncomfortable about a segment of Finding Your Roots after filming, which was ultimately not included in the final broadcast. An investigation concluded that Affleck had exerted "improper influence" over the editorial process.

2017: MeToo movement allegations

During the MeToo movement in 2017, Ben Affleck was accused by two women of inappropriate behavior. These accusations and his response sparked controversy.

2017: Alcoholism relapse and stepping down from The Batman

In 2017, amidst an alcoholism relapse, Ben Affleck did not work. He stepped down as director, writer, and star of "The Batman", citing a lack of passion for the story.

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2017: Reflecting on Viral Moment on Real Time

In a 2017 Guardian interview, Ben Affleck reflected on the viral moment from his 2014 appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher, stating that no one should be stereotyped based on race or religion.