Ben Affleck Stepping Down As Director For The Batman -- All So He Can Focus His Energy On THIS!

Batfleck won’t be saving the DC Comics franchise after all — at least not from behind the camera!
Ben Affleck has decided to step down as director of The Batman and stay on as a producer and star of the upcoming installment.
Warner Bros. CEO Kevin Tsujihara announced at last year’s CinemaCon that the Argo director would be helming the next Batman sequel, which the actor also co-wrote the script for.
Related: Joe Manganiello To Fight Opposite Ben’s Batman As Deathstroke!
But it looks like the 44-year-old isn’t the director Gotham deserves, OR the one it needs right now — because he said he’d rather just focus his talents on playing the Caped Crusader!
According to sources, the actor and studio came to the decision together after discussing how to make the best film possible.
Ben said in a statement to Variety:

“There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions. 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. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”

Sources also insisted the decision was made out of what’s best for the project, and NOT about the flop that was Affleck’s recent directing job, Live by Night. So, don’t even ask about it, okay!?
Related: Former WB Employee SLAMS CEO In Raging Open Letter!
As of now, the Oscar-winner and studio are searching for a replacement director, with insiders saying the shortlist includes War for the Planet of the Apes director Matt Reeves.
While The Batman may still be up in the air, Affleck has already completed work as the Dark Knight in Justice League, which hits theaters November 17.
As for stepping down as director, it takes a big man to admit he needs help from another powerful force. It looks like Ben learned something from Batman V. Superman after all! LOLz!
[Image via Warner Bros..]