Ben Affleck candidly reveals the regrets he harbors over his divorce from Jennifer Garner, delving into the challenges he faced during that tumultuous period and the impact of his struggles with alcoholism.
In a compelling interview with The New York Times, Affleck reflects on the toxic nature of shame, emphasizing the detrimental effects it can have on self-esteem and self-hatred.
Acknowledging that the dissolution of his marriage is the most significant regret of his life, Affleck discloses the correlation between his escalating alcohol consumption and the breakdown of his relationship with Garner.
His battle with alcoholism intensified during the years around 2015 and 2016, coinciding with the filming of Batman v Superman, a film that faced criticism and contributed to Affleck's personal and professional challenges.
The actor's vulnerability extends to the aftermath of Batman v Superman's reception, a film that not only faced critical backlash but also led to the emergence of "Sad Affleck" memes following an infamous interview. Affleck's personal struggles, coupled with the complexities of filming Justice League, prompted him to reassess his commitment to directing a solo Batman movie. A poignant moment occurred when he shared the Batman script with someone who cautioned him against reliving the challenging experiences he had previously undergone.
Affleck underscores the importance of not dwelling excessively on failures and setbacks, emphasizing the need to learn from mistakes and forge ahead. Despite his regrets and acknowledged missteps, he articulates a resilient spirit, committed to personal growth and moving forward. The interview provides a rare glimpse into the actor's introspection, shedding light on the multifaceted challenges he navigated during a tumultuous period in his life.