Batman Vs Superman may have gotten polarizing reviews, however, fans unanimously agree that Ben Affleck looked perfectly jacked as a Batman. In fact, the scene where Affleck is training hard with the intent to take down Superman went viral. Getting cast in one of the biggest Superhero productions certainly adds a nice touch to an actor’s resume, however, the challenge is getting that Superhero body. And Warner Bros, the studio behind DC content, wanted Affleck to take inspiration from Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The ex-governor is already a legend in the bodybuilding world. A 7-time Mr. Olympia winner, he had the perfect V shape in the golden 50s and 60s. To achieve that body, Affleck went through countless hours in the pain chamber.

Ben Affleck took notes from a young Arnold Schwarzenegger

In order to beef up and look at the part of the Caped Crusader that can believably take on Superman, Affleck looked too young Arnold Schwarzenegger. The pressure of getting in shape was huge on him. So he got his friend and trainer, Sir Walton Norton Jr, to assist him, reported Fandom Wire. The man had previously worked with the Boston Celtics and Affleck himself in Town and Argo, but the challenge was bigger this time. 

The studio demanded that he not only get shredded, but he must achieve the look of an MMA heavyweight. It was important because the movie was supposed to have a showdown between the iconic superheroes. And if the Gone Girl star did not look intimidating enough, the premise would not work. He was under immense pressure to build a massive presence to tower over the Brit, which eventually took a toll on him. 

Ben Affleck’s alcohol problem got worse 

Affleck always had an alcohol problem. He had been in rehab several times in the past to treat his alcoholism. His most recent trip to rehab was in 2018. Putting himself through that grueling process was not helping his cause. Although he was originally meant to star and also direct Matt Reeves’ The Batman, the 50-year-old had to step away. 

The studios then brought in Reeves, and Robert Pattinson was cast to play the new Batman. However, Affleck has not entirely retired as Batman. In fact, he returned as the vigilante in the latest trailer for The Flash. 

Do you think The Batman would have been better with Affleck? Share your thoughts in the comments.