Mindy Kaling Reveals Ben Affleck's Unexpected Reaction to Her Breakthrough Play 'Matt & Ben' – And It's Hilarious!
Mindy Kaling, the celebrated writer and actress behind hits like The Office, The Mindy Project, and Never Have I Ever, has a knack for witty observations and relatable storytelling. Now, she’s sharing a hilarious anecdote about her early career and a surprising reaction from Hollywood royalty: Ben Affleck.
In her memoir, Is Everyone Hanging Out With Me? (And Other Concerns), Kaling recounts the experience of writing and starring in the play Matt & Ben, a satirical comedy about two obsessive fans creating a fictionalized version of Affleck and Matt Damon's lives. The play, which debuted in 2010, became a significant early success for Kaling, launching her into the spotlight and solidifying her reputation as a sharp comedic voice.
But not everyone was thrilled with the playful portrayal. According to Kaling, Affleck himself wasn't a huge fan. “Ben Affleck did not love the play,” she revealed. “He did not think it was funny.” While that might seem like a potential career-killer, Kaling added a silver lining: “At least he didn’t sue me.”
The story highlights Kaling’s ability to navigate the complexities of fame and Hollywood with humor and grace. It also offers a glimpse into the often-unpredictable reactions of celebrities to portrayals of their public image. Imagine being the subject of a comedic play – and having the actual person weigh in!
Kaling’s memoir delves deeper into the behind-the-scenes experiences that shaped her career, offering candid insights into her struggles with self-doubt, navigating the entertainment industry as a woman of color, and the challenges of finding her place in a world that often felt overwhelming. It’s a refreshingly honest and laugh-out-loud funny look at the journey to becoming a successful writer and producer.
The anecdote about Affleck serves as a perfect example of Kaling's comedic timing and her ability to find humor in even the most awkward situations. It’s a reminder that even the biggest stars have their moments of less-than-enthusiastic reactions, and that sometimes, the best way to handle it is with a good laugh – and a healthy dose of self-awareness.
Is Everyone Hanging Out With Me? remains a must-read for fans of Kaling's work and anyone interested in a behind-the-scenes look at the world of entertainment. It’s a testament to her talent, her resilience, and her ability to turn everyday experiences into relatable and hilarious stories.