Bill Maher revealed that actor Ben Affleck has consistently turned down invitations to return to HBO’s Real Time. This follows a 2014 episode where Affleck condemned comments about Islam made by Maher and Sam Harris as ‘gross’ and ‘racist.’ Maher discussed this on his ‘Club Random’ podcast, noting he has reached out annually for nearly 12 years with hopes of settling their differences privately. ‘I love him, but we just are going to disagree on that one,’ Maher said.
A representative for Affleck didn’t immediately comment on Maher’s account or the possibility of Affleck’s return to the show. His last appearance was in October 2014. In a 2017 interview with The Guardian, Affleck explained his reaction stemmed from opposition to stereotyping based on race or religion. ‘I love a good debate,’ Affleck stated, emphasizing his belief against racially or religiously stereotyping individuals.
The original exchange involved author Sam Harris and New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof. Affleck opposed Harris’ sweeping claims about Muslims, defending the majority who ‘aren’t fanatical’ and who live ordinary lives. Maher countered by highlighting issues of violence linked to blasphemy within Islam, calling it a unique threat.
Affleck criticized such generalizations as ‘gross and racist,’ while Harris explained that his critique was of religious beliefs, not Muslims themselves. He clarified further distinctions among different Muslim groups shortly after the episode. While Harris mentioned reconciling with Affleck, Maher noted no such conversation had occurred between him and Affleck. Maher commented on the episode’s ongoing attention, describing it as more emotional due to Affleck’s involvement.