Bill Maher Claims Ben Affleck Has Declined 'Real Time' Return Since 2014 Islam Debate

Comedian Bill Maher said that actor Ben Affleck has repeatedly refused to appear on HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher" since a heated on-air debate about Islam in October 2014. Maher stated on his "Club Random" podcast that he has invited Affleck back every year since the incident.

During the 2014 episode, Affleck called Maher and fellow guest Sam Harris's remarks about Islam "gross" and "racist." Affleck later explained in a 2017 interview that his strong reaction stemmed from his opposition to stereotyping individuals based on their race or religion, which he considers a fundamental liberal tenet. He questioned the generalizations made about Muslims, stating, "How about more than a billion people who aren’t fanatical, who don’t punch women, who just want to go to school, have some sandwiches, pray five times a day, and don’t do any of the things you’re saying of all Muslims? It’s stereotyping."

Maher, in the same exchange, defended his criticism by referencing threats and violence associated with blasphemy and dissent within certain contexts, saying, "It’s the only religion that acts like the mafia that will f---ing kill you if you say the wrong thing, draw the wrong picture, or write the wrong book."

Harris, who was also part of the 2014 discussion, stated in a 2022 appearance on "Club Random" that he and Affleck had reconciled privately after the broadcast. Maher indicated that he has not had a similar private conversation with Affleck, expressing a hope that a private discussion could still resolve their disagreement. He suggested that nearly 12 years later, there might be common ground to be found.

Despite the passage of time, Maher noted the enduring attention the 2014 episode continues to receive, remarking that "more people mention that episode to me than anything." He characterized the incident as an example of "America" becoming emotional due to the involvement of a movie star.

Affleck's representative did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding Maher's account or the actor's potential return to the show.