“I don’t like it. You can keep it”: Ben Affleck Has No Problem Reaping the Benefits of Fame Despite Hating It More Than Anything
Ben Affleck is one of the most famous faces in Hollywood, but if you ask him, he would be happy to trade in all that recognition for a life of anonymity. The Oscar-winning actor has repeatedly insisted over the years that he does not enjoy being in the spotlight and prefers to keep his personal life private. However, Affleck has also admitted that fame does come with certain advantages that make celebrity somewhat bearable for him.
So, while he may claim to hate being famous with a passion, Affleck can’t deny that he has benefitted from his A-list status in major ways. From skipping lines at theme parks to landing coveted restaurant reservations, Affleck acknowledges that his star power grants him perks and access. Still, he finds the lack of privacy and scrutiny that comes with fame to be major drawbacks.
What Perks Has Fame Brought Ben Affleck?
In a recent interview, Affleck admitted, “I’m not built to be famous. I don’t like it, you can keep it.” He went on to say that besides getting out of speeding tickets and skipping lines at Disneyland, fame has not brought him much value. Ben Affleck explained that while he wants his work as an actor to profoundly impact audiences, he does not crave the spotlight.
While adamant that he does not enjoy fame, Affleck has reaped advantages from his A-list status over the years. He acknowledged that fame helps him get restaurant reservations and avoid long theme park lines. His celebrity also likely provides networking opportunities in Hollywood and enables him to command big paychecks for films.
Affleck’s high-profile relationships, including his recent remarriage to Jennifer Lopez, also keep him in the public eye. Even Affleck’s “Sad Affleck” meme brought him publicity. So while insistent he shuns fame, Affleck can’t escape its trappings.
How Has Ben Affleck’s Famous Face Impacted His Career?
Interestingly, Affleck feels his famous face may have typecast him in some fans’ eyes as a brooding, troubled figure. He clarified that his oft-glum public image is partly due to his natural “unhappy-looking resting face.” Affleck also believes his very public struggle with alcoholism shaped public assumptions.
Affleck has been remarkably candid about his drinking and rehab stints over the years. He remains cognizant that his celebrity means his mistakes play out publicly, especially impacting his children. Affleck is learning to accept life in the limelight, even when it invades his privacy.
While Affleck is adamant he does not enjoy fame, he has undoubtedly benefited from his celebrity status over his decades-long career. He knows his actions play out publicly, but feels trapped by fame’s constraints. Affleck accepts that fame is part of being a successful actor, but hopes to be appreciated for his artistic talents rather than his celebrity alone.
