Spencer Pratt Criticizes Ben Affleck’s Views on Addiction

Spencer Pratt recently criticized Ben Affleck’s comments on addiction and recovery. Affleck, in a 2021 interview on ‘The Howard Stern Show’, shared his perspective on sobriety. The 53-year-old Oscar winner, known for his public battle with alcoholism, argued that suffering is the cure for addiction.

Affleck stated, ‘I hate to say it, but the cure for addiction, the only cure I’ve seen, and not these overpriced rehabs, is suffering.’ He acknowledged support systems like Alcoholics Anonymous but stressed personal suffering as key. Affleck shared that personal loss, particularly affecting his relationship with his children, was a turning point in his sobriety journey.

‘You suffer enough that something inside you goes, ‘I’m done’,’ Affleck explained. He mentioned losing things he valued most brought about this change.

Pratt, a former Los Angeles mayoral candidate, reposted the clip and criticized Affleck’s views. Pratt, focusing on the city’s addiction crisis during his campaign, harshly rebuked Affleck’s stance. Pratt wrote on social media, ‘I’d love for Ben to join me on Skid Row and explain his addiction theory to those still suffering amidst severe addiction.’

Pratt lost his home to the Palisades Fire in January 2025 and announced his mayoral candidacy on the fire’s anniversary. He prioritized addressing Los Angeles’ homelessness crisis, which he linked to addiction issues, particularly involving fentanyl and methamphetamine.

He advocated for involuntary treatment of those unable to seek help under California’s expanded conservatorship law. Pratt’s plan included creating rehabilitation centers, ending taxpayer-funded drug paraphernalia distribution, and enforcing drug laws more strictly.

Pratt accused his opponents, Mayor Karen Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman, of failing to address the root cause of homelessness, which he identified as addiction, despite substantial spending.

Despite losing the race, Pratt continues to engage on political issues like addiction and public safety through social media. Affleck has been open about his ongoing battle with alcoholism, beginning treatment in 2001 with subsequent stays in rehab. He has spoken about the influence of his children and his father’s alcoholism on his recovery.

Affleck’s struggles with alcohol have been a public journey. He has continually emphasized the importance of staying sober for his children’s formative years.