Ben Affleck, the Oscar-winning actor and director, has finally addressed the viral internet joke that he always appears miserable whenever he’s caught by paparazzi. In a surprisingly blunt and self-aware interview with Kevin Hart on the Hart to Heart show, Affleck admitted he’s well aware of the memes — and, frankly, he doesn’t care anymore.
During their candid chat, Affleck didn’t hold back. He explained that the paparazzi often swarm him during his most personal moments, including school runs with his children, making it impossible to look anything but frustrated. “I’m with my kids, man. I don’t want a bunch of people taking my picture. It’s invasive, it’s upsetting, it’s wrong,” he told Hart, as shared by The Independent.
Ben Affleck explains why he always looks miserable: “Imagine cameras in your face when you’re just trying to take your kids to school.” https://twitter.com/DiscussingFilm/status/1923952390879816790— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) May 7, 2025
Affleck also pointed out that many viral paparazzi shots are taken in split-second moments — especially when he’s navigating stressful everyday errands. “You get one second where you’re annoyed or tired, and that’s the shot they use everywhere,” he said, laughing about the memes. Variety captures more highlights from the interview.
The “Sad Affleck” meme dates back years, with countless images circulating online of him appearing exhausted, particularly during his public divorce with Jennifer Garner and struggles with sobriety. But instead of fighting it, Affleck says he’s embraced the humor. “At this point, it’s a part of my brand,” he joked. The Hollywood Reporter outlines his full commentary.
Ben Affleck has the best attitude about going viral for looking miserable. “I just stopped caring. If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.” https://twitter.com/PopBase/status/1923987654359812354— Pop Base (@PopBase) May 7, 2025
Despite the memes, Affleck continues to be one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. His recent work behind the camera, including directing “Air,” about Nike’s historic deal with Michael Jordan, earned widespread critical acclaim. CNN Entertainment dives into his career resurgence.
Fans were quick to applaud Affleck’s honesty and sense of humor. Social media was flooded with praise for how he handled the conversation, with many people admitting they appreciated seeing a celebrity who doesn’t take himself too seriously. “Ben Affleck is officially all of us dealing with Monday mornings,” one user quipped. BuzzFeed collected the best reactions.
For Affleck, life isn’t about perfect smiles for the cameras — it’s about real moments, even if those moments sometimes involve a coffee in one hand, a child’s backpack in the other, and an unamused face that’s gone viral around the world.
