WTF Happened to Ben Affleck?

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

In our latest WTF series, we take a look at some of our favorite stars and filmmakers who have seemingly disappeared or altered their careers over the years to the point that begs the question; WTF happened? Now, before you think we're just picking on celebrities or running some gossip rag stuff, think again! We take a fun (and sometimes funny), researched and fair approach, looking at all angles that led our subject to wherever they are now (which isn't necessarily a bad place at all). If anything, it answers the question on where these fine folks went, how they got there and where you can find 'em now. In this episode we look at the career of Ben Affleck, who rose to fame in the early days of Kevin Smith with indie hits like CHASING AMY and MALLRATS, as well as a memorable turn in Richard Linklater's DAZED AND CONFUSED. However, it was his co-scripting and acting in GOOD WILL HUNTING that really put him on the map and opened up doors for all types of leading man roles, including Michael Bay's ARMAGEDDON and PEARL HARBOR, John Frankenheimer's REINDEER GAMES, the Tom Clancy adaptation THE SUM OF ALL FEARS and the lead in Marvel's DAREDEVIL.

However, he hit a snag at GIGLI with then spouse Jennifer Lopez and did a number of smaller films before emerging as a director with THE TOWN. From there, Affleck was on fire again, following up with another directorial gig, ARGO, which took home the gold. He continued this hot streak with David Fincher's GONE GIRL before becoming a superhero again, this time for Zack Snyder's BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE and JUSTICE LEAGUE. From there his next directorial effort, LIVE BY NIGHT, fizzled and Affleck's personal life suffered as well, battling divorce and alcoholism. The actor sought help and worked hard to get sober, next appearing in THE WAY BACK, which tackles those very demons. Affleck has a number of projects lined up from here and is looking healthy and strong yet again, ready to deliver more good work on top of his already massively impressive resume. Also, he was the BOMB in PHANTOMS, yo! We love ya, Ben!