Spencer Pratt Criticizes Ben Affleck’s Views on Addiction
Spencer Pratt has taken issue with comments made by Ben Affleck concerning addiction and recovery. In a clip from Affleck’s 2021 interview on “The Howard Stern Show,” the Oscar-winning actor discussed his battle with alcoholism. He emphasized that in his experience, suffering is a crucial component of recovery.
I hate to say it, but the cure for addiction, the only cure I’ve seen, involves suffering. Not expensive rehabs or fraudulent fixes. Alcoholics Anonymous is generally good, but suffering drives change.
Affleck described reaching a point in his life when he almost lost the things most important to him—his relationship with his children. Acknowledging that impact on his family led him to make amends and stop drinking.
Spencer Pratt, who emphasized addiction issues during his campaign for Los Angeles mayor, responded by challenging Affleck’s theory. Pratt questioned whether suffering truly helps those grappling with severe addiction, suggesting that afflictions persist despite immense suffering.
Pratt, whose home burned down in the Palisades Fire of January 2025, ran for mayor with a focus on addressing homelessness, framed as a symptom of addiction. He argued that drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine drive homelessness in L.A.
Pratt proposed involuntary treatment for those deeply addicted, advocating for rehabilitation campuses and stronger enforcement against drug trafficking. He criticized opponents for inadequate actions on addiction.
Since conceding in June, Pratt has remained vocal about addiction and homelessness issues in Los Angeles.
Affleck’s struggles with alcoholism have been public. He first sought treatment in 2001 and has openly discussed his recovery, including subsequent admissions in 2017 and 2018. He emphasized his children’s role in his sobriety campaign.
Appearing on “ABC News” in 2020, Affleck explained his motivation, influenced by his father’s alcoholism. Affleck aimed to maintain sobriety for his children’s sake, fearing they might be affected by his past behaviors.