Steven Spielberg reportedly refused to work with Ben Affleck over a personal incident. Screenwriter Mike Binder claims Spielberg backed out of directing his film Man About Town for Dreamworks after learning Affleck was cast. Spielberg cited box office bombs and the actor's high-profile relationship at the time, but also mentioned a specific grievance.
The director allegedly recalled a family vacation where Affleck, then dating Spielberg's goddaughter Gwyneth Paltrow, threw his young son into a pool after a childish prank, making the boy cry. Binder relayed this story on a podcast, noting Spielberg's clear dislike for the actor. Affleck later guessed the pool story was the real reason he lost the role.
Binder still wanted Affleck for the lead, informing Spielberg of his decision. Dreamworks then dropped the project entirely the next day. The film was eventually released by Lionsgate.
The director allegedly recalled a family vacation where Affleck, then dating Spielberg's goddaughter Gwyneth Paltrow, threw his young son into a pool after a childish prank, making the boy cry. Binder relayed this story on a podcast, noting Spielberg's clear dislike for the actor. Affleck later guessed the pool story was the real reason he lost the role.
Binder still wanted Affleck for the lead, informing Spielberg of his decision. Dreamworks then dropped the project entirely the next day. The film was eventually released by Lionsgate.
