Bill Maher Reveals Why Affleck Avoids His Show

Bill Maher has stated that Ben Affleck's absence from his show, Real Time, stems from a contentious debate about Islam that occurred in October 2014. The host admitted that his relationship with the actor has been altered since that particular episode. Affleck, along with podcaster Sam Harris, engaged in a strong disagreement with Maher regarding Islam. Maher had made assertions about Islam, likening it to the mafia, while Harris questioned Islamophobia. Affleck pushed back, calling their comments 'gross' and 'racist' and highlighting that most Muslims are not fanatical. This exchange visibly distressed Affleck, causing him to cover his face. Maher revealed he has invited Affleck to return to the show every year since, but the actor has not accepted. Maher also commented on the episode's significant impact, noting that more people mention it to him than any other, describing the emotional intensity as characteristic of 'America.'