Ben Affleck steps down as director of The Batman but will stay on as producer and star

By Stephanie Haney At Dailymail.com

Published: 23:00 EST, 30 January 2017 | Updated: 23:58 EST, 30 January 2017

The Batman is making some changes to the crew list on the heels of what critics called a 'disappointing' directing performance for Live by Night.

Ben Affleck has relinquished his director role for the upcoming film The Batman, according to an exclusive statement made to Variety on Monday.

The 44-year-old will still star in the movie in addition to staying on as a producer.

Stepping down: Ben Affleck has relinquished his director role for the upcoming film The Batman, according to an exclusive statement made to Variety on Monday; seen here at the European premiere for Live by Night in London on January 11

Man behind the mask: Affleck and Warner Bros. decided to make the change jointly after talks about what would be best for the film, sources told Variety; seen here in a promotional photo released by Warner Bros. for Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice

Affleck and Warner Bros. decided to make the change jointly after talks about what would be best for the film, sources told Variety.  

'There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions,' Affleck said of the change.

'Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film.'

Not going anywhere: The 44-year-old will still star in the movie in addition to staying on as a producer; seen here at the world premiere of Live by Night in Hollywood on January 9

The star also addressed any fan concerns that the making of the film might be in jeopardy.

'I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director,' he said. 'I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.'

Although Affleck suffered poor reviews for his directing of Live by Night, Variety reported that was not a factor in making this decision.

Deciding together: Affleck and Warner Bros. decided to make the change jointly after talks about what would be best for the film, sources told Variety; seen here in a photo released by Warner Bros. showing Affleck (L) and Henry Cavill (R) in Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice

The entertainment company behind the film released its own statement that seemed to suggest the move was slightly more the choice of the star. 

'Warner Bros. fully supports Ben Affleck’s decision and remains committed to working with him to bring a standalone Batman picture to life,' the studio said.

War for the Planet of the Apes director Matt Reeves is reported to be among those on the shortlist to replace the Good Will Hunting star. 

No relation: Although Affleck suffered poor reviews for his directing of Live by Night, Variety reported that was not a factor in making this decision; seen here at the European premiere for Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice in London on March 22, 2016

Affleck has already put a lot into this feature film, co-writing the script with Geoff Johns. He was scheduled to begin preparing for its production this summer.

The star made his debut as the caped crusader in Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, alongside Henry Cavill as Clark Kent and the man of steel.

He'll appear again as Bruce Wayne and the superhero behind the mask in Justice League, out November 17.  

Batman and Superman: The Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice co-stars are seen here at the film's New York premiere at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on March 20, 2016

 

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