More than seven years have passed since the emergence of the notorious “sad” Ben Affleck meme. The Oscar-winning movie star is certainly aware of his internet fame, with his distressed or fatigued images continuing to gain traction online. Just this week, a paparazzi photo allegedly depicting Affleck “being sick of life” went viral on X, formerly Twitter. Interestingly, the specific image is in fact nine years old, yet it still managed to capture the attention of more than 21 million viewers.
So, why do these Affleck photos resonate with internet audiences? According to pop culture experts, the relatability of the emotional turmoil Affleck appears to show, whether genuine or not, is a major factor. Claire Sisco King, an associate professor of communication studies at Vanderbilt University, explains that there is an undeniable element of schadenfreude in play, with some audiences finding pleasure in witnessing the apparent struggles of someone who is perceived as privileged. On the other hand, many people are able to identify with feelings of being overwhelmed, exhausted, or despondent, further adding to the relatability of the “sad Affleck” memes.
The first instance of the “sad Affleck” meme, as we know it today, arose during the Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice press tour in 2016. Subsequently, paparazzi began capturing images of him looking fatigued or carrying Dunkin’ Donuts, which consistently went viral. Even an appearance at the Grammys with Jennifer Lopez earlier this year led to widespread speculation about his supposed misery, despite both stars maintaining otherwise.
Sulafa Zidani, an associate professor of media studies at Northwestern University, believes that Affleck’s photos provide a unique blend of relatable distress and inherent humor due to elements such as his seeming exhaustion and his New Englander zeal for Dunkin’ Donuts. Furthermore, the recent revival of a 2014 photo is not uncommon for memes, and the existing catalog of Affleck memes has only helped to fuel its resurgence.
Every photo of Affleck serves as fodder for online scrutiny, leaving people to question his interactions with his ex-wife Jennifer Garner or even his body language with Lopez. Although one might expect that someone of Affleck’s stature would be accustomed to constantly being photographed, experts stress that “fleeting gestures” can be easily misconstrued when taken out of context. Moreover, Affleck’s personal life, including his high-profile relationships and his battles with alcohol addiction, makes him a prime target for dramatic narratives, according to King.
Affleck has acknowledged the memes in the past, expressing concerns about how his children might perceive these images. Despite the potential impact on his well-being, he has managed to incorporate elements from his personal life into his public persona. However, there is a possibility for him to reclaim the narrative by engaging with the meme-makers, ensuring a more wholesome and personal interaction with his fan base.
