Ben Affleck says his kids must work for expensive items after declining son's $6000 sneakers request

Ben Affleck has weighed in on the recent viral moment involving his teenage son Samuel's request for an expensive pair of designer trainers, using the spotlight to share his views on parenting and the importance of teaching children the value of money.

The actor appeared on Today with Jenna & Friends on 22 April, where he discussed the widely shared video of a conversation between him and 13-year-old Samuel over a pair of $6,000 Dior Air Force 1s. Affleck recalled, "He wanted these sneakers, and I was like, 'These sneakers are $6,000, what are you talking about? What are you gonna do, mow lawns? You got $6,000?'"

Affleck explained that although he has the financial means, he doesn’t believe in simply giving his children everything they ask for. “You love your kids. You want to give them everything and do everything for them, but I think you definitely do them a disservice by not connecting [if] you want something that you want, you have to work for that,” he said.

During the segment, Affleck confirmed that his older children, Violet and Seraphina, both have jobs. The actor suggested this kind of responsibility is essential to help young people appreciate the cost of their desires.

Speaking on his youngest, he added, "My son, who's 13, he's reckoning with that reality right now. He's looking at no shoes in his closet. Well, he's got shoes, just no crazy expensive fancy shoes."

The story originally gained attention after Affleck and Samuel were spotted at a sneaker convention where the teenager expressed interest in the high-priced footwear. Affleck’s reaction was caught on camera, leading to widespread discussion online.