Ben Affleck has opened up about his deepest fears and insecurities in Hollywood, especially in light of his recent split from Jennifer Lopez. In an eye-opening conversation with Deadline, Affleck, 52, spoke candidly about the uncertainties he faces in his career and the fragile nature of success in the entertainment industry. The Good Will Hunting star and acclaimed director, who ended his marriage with Lopez in August, revealed the pressures and anxieties that come with being in the public eye, sharing insights into his professional life as he works on a new business venture with longtime friend Matt Damon.
Affleck and Damon recently launched Artists Equity, their own production company, with the mission of promoting fairer profit-sharing models for people working in film and television. During the interview, Affleck delved into the struggles that have shaped his journey, including his concern over his future in Hollywood. He described the industry as “uncertain,” where the stability of a career can be fleeting, and a single misstep can spell disaster.
“We’re all subject to this sort of insecurity in this business. Whether we’re actors or directors or writers, the phone could stop ringing for us,” Affleck admitted. “This is the only thing I can count on, this upfront money. I don’t know when this might go away.” This confession underscores the fragility of a career in Hollywood, where even seasoned actors like Affleck face the anxiety of fading relevance and the fear that opportunities could suddenly dry up.
Affleck’s comments also highlighted the unique pressures of fame. Beyond the typical professional uncertainties, he acknowledged that his every move and word are scrutinized. “I’m one errant remark away from being cancelled, or I’m one movie bomb away from never working again, and I’ve got a family and so forth,” he confessed. This statement sheds light on the precariousness of fame in the modern era, where public figures are under constant pressure to meet high expectations, knowing that one misstep could potentially end their careers.
This vulnerability has driven Affleck to seek stability by changing the game in Hollywood. Together with Damon, he aims to create a more equitable system within their production company. Through Artists Equity, Affleck is pioneering a profit-sharing model that prioritizes fair pay structures for all members of a production, not just the top-billed actors and directors. This initiative reflects his desire to build something more sustainable and secure—not only for himself but also for others who work tirelessly in the industry.
By establishing Artists Equity, Affleck hopes to address the industry’s systemic issues, offering a safer and more predictable future for artists. His push for fairer pay demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact, not only for his own career stability but also for the future of Hollywood.
Affleck’s candid remarks serve as a reminder that even A-list celebrities grapple with fears of career uncertainty and public scrutiny. His venture with Artists Equity is more than just a business move; it’s a safeguard against the unpredictable nature of Hollywood, allowing him to take control of his future while fostering a fairer environment for others in the industry.