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In the entertainment industry, where success can be fleeting and cutthroat, it is not uncommon for colleagues to distance themselves from one another. However, this was not the case for two of Hollywood's biggest names: Ben Affleck and Matt Damon.
In a recent appearance on Bill Simmons' podcast, the duo revealed a joint bank account that they shared early on in their careers, a testament to their strong friendship and unwavering support for one another
.A Financial Safety Net
"It was always like, as long as one of us had money, we knew that the power wasn't going to get shut off," said Damon, reflecting on the purpose of their shared finances.
He went on to explain that after the success of his role in the 1993 film "Geronimo," he had roughly $35,000 in his personal checking account. This newfound financial security allowed him to alleviate any stress or anxiety about their future, stating, "I was like, 'We're good.
We got this.' " Despite the uniqueness of their arrangement, Damon admitted that it made sense at the time. "It was unusual, but it was also we needed the money for auditions, for trips to New York. That's what the money was for," he explained.
The funds were used to cover expenses related to their acting pursuits, such as traveling to auditions or exploring opportunities in New York City. Affleck echoed Damon's sentiments, remarking on the benefits of their linked lives.
"We were in it together," he said. "Even at the times when the disparity in our careers was extreme, I never envied Matt." The two friends approached their careers as a united front, with the understanding that their shared success was more important than individual achievements.
A Statement of Support
The joint bank account was more than just a financial arrangement; it was a symbol of their unwavering support for one another. "It's hard enough... It was like, 'You're not going to be alone. I'm not going to be alone, let's go out there and do this together,'" Affleck added.
The account served as a safety net, ensuring that neither of them would face financial struggles alone. The account had its own set of rules, as outlined by Damon: "You were allowed to go to [auditions in] New York with the money.
You were allowed to take out $10 and get quarters and go to [the arcade] and play video games... Eventually, we were allowed to try to buy beer, which never f***ing worked." These lighthearted restrictions serve as a reminder of the carefree, yet determined spirit with which they approached their careers and lives.
A New Venture
Their joint film "Air" arrives in theaters across America on April 5, and will then be released on Amazon Prime Video. The film serves as a testament to their continued friendship and creative partnership, a bond forged through shared experiences and a shared bank account.
