Ben Affleck knows exactly how to get out of plans without feeling guilty — and it all comes down to family.
In a recent interview with his co-star Jon Bernthal for GOAT TALK, the 52-year-old actor shared the one excuse that always works for him. As the two actors promoted their upcoming movie The Accountant 2, Bernthal asked Affleck what he believes is the “GOAT” (Greatest Of All Time) excuse for bailing on plans.
Without hesitation, Affleck responded, “It’s not even really an excuse if you’ve heard me use it before, but honestly — my kids.”
The Oscar-winner explained that if something comes up with his children, there’s no question about his priorities.
“You just say, ‘Hey, I can’t do it. I gotta take care of my kids,’” he said with a smile. “That’s why I don’t even call it an ‘excuse.’ It’s real life.”
Why Family Always Comes First for Affleck
Ben Affleck shares three children — Violet (19), Seraphina (16), and Samuel (13) — with his ex-wife, actress Jennifer Garner. Despite his busy career, Affleck often talks about how important it is to be there for his children, even if it means canceling other plans.
During the conversation, Jon Bernthal, 48, offered his own favorite excuse: needing to be on a film set.
“For me, it’s, ‘I gotta be on set,’” Bernthal said, laughing. “It sounds a little douchey, but being on set is like being in jail — you don’t have a choice, you have to be there.”
Affleck agreed that being called to set can be a solid reason, but he admitted that the parenting card might be the one he should lean on even more.
“I should definitely use it more,” he joked. “Because when you say you need to do something for your kids, people understand. They’re like, ‘Hey, we all have kids.’ It works!”
A Fun Rivalry at Home: Ben vs. His Daughter in Spanish
Ben Affleck’s commitment to his children goes far beyond just being present. He also enjoys building strong, fun relationships with them at home.
Earlier this month, Affleck appeared on the Today show, where he revealed a playful rivalry he shares with one of his daughters.
The competition? Speaking Spanish.
“My daughter is studying Spanish and often challenges me, telling me her Spanish is better than mine,” Affleck shared, laughing. “And I’m happy to say — especially on national TV — that I’m the winner.”
While he admitted that his daughter would probably be “appalled” by his bragging, Affleck emphasized how special it is to bond with his children over shared interests.
“I can speak a bit of Spanish,” he added. “I learned it when I was younger, and it’s been a really nice thing for us to connect over.”
Balancing Hollywood Life and Fatherhood
Despite his fame, award-winning career, and packed schedule, Ben Affleck has always been vocal about how important it is to prioritize his family. Whether it’s turning down plans to be with his kids or sharing lighthearted moments at home, Affleck shows that being a devoted dad is one role he takes very seriously.
As he gears up for the release of The Accountant 2, fans can expect to see more of Ben Affleck on the big screen — but it’s clear that off-screen, his heart belongs to his family.
Comments are closed.