Bill Maher and Ben Affleck are still at odds more than a decade after their heated television debate. The comedian recently revealed that Affleck has refused to return to his HBO show since their memorable on-air clash in 2014.
Bill Maher reveals why Ben Affleck will never return to his show
Maher discussed the situation on the August 17 episode of his Club Random Podcast. He said the Oscar-winning actor has rejected annual invitations to appear on Real Time with Bill Maher since their disagreement.
“I mean it’s… I love him,” Maher said while speaking with comedian Max Amini. “But we just are gonna disagree on that one.” The feud dates back to Affleck’s October 2014 appearance on Real Time. During the episode, Affleck strongly challenged Maher and author Sam Harris over their comments about Islam and Muslims.
The actor described their arguments as “gross,” “racist” and “nuts.” At one point, he compared the remarks to making offensive generalizations about Jewish people. Despite the fallout, Maher suggested he would be open to moving past the disagreement. “If I talked to him privately, or it’s been 12 years, maybe I think there’s a middle ground,” he said.
Maher also admitted the debate remains one of the most talked-about moments from his long-running HBO series. “More people mentioned that episode to me than anything,” he said, adding that the discussion became emotional.
Affleck has stayed away from Maher’s show since the debate. However, Sam Harris revealed during a 2022 appearance on Club Random that he and the actor privately resolved their differences. Maher, however, said he has not had a similar conversation with Affleck.
During the podcast, the comedian also made a lighthearted joke about Affleck’s personal life while discussing temporary marriage practices. The remark came after guest Max Amini suggested the arrangement could benefit the actor.
Neither Affleck nor his representatives have publicly responded to Maher’s latest comments. For now, it appears the famous Bill Maher-Ben Affleck dispute remains unresolved. However, Maher stated he would welcome the actor back to his HBO show if they ever find common ground.
Originally reported by Shweta Chakrawarthy on Mandatory.
