Ben Affleck handed Jimmy Kimmel a funny note from Matt Damon, bringing back their famous fake feud and getting fans excited. The joke came right after Kimmel won a Critics’ Choice award, with Damon sending a sarcastic congratulations through Affleck. Clips of the moment quickly went viral, showing why this long-running gag is still so popular.
There’s also a new trailer for Netflix’s The Rip, where Damon and Affleck play Miami cops in a tense thriller. On top of that, Damon’s big NBC Olympics promo connects to Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey. In January 2026, Matt Damon is trending because he’s everywhere—reviving feuds, starring in action trailers, and teasing new blockbusters.
People in the U.S. enjoy Damon’s mix of charm, talent, and humor. From his Boston beginnings to becoming a Hollywood star, his recent projects show why fans still love him.
Breakthrough with Good Will Hunting
Matt Damon became famous by co-writing and starring in Good Will Hunting with his childhood friend Ben Affleck. The 1997 movie, about a troubled genius who works as a janitor, won them the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Damon’s powerful performance as Will Hunting showed his talent from the start.
The film’s success launched both into stardom:
- Critical acclaim and box office hit
- Established Damon-Affleck partnership
- Created opportunities for major franchises
Good Will Hunting remains a classic that fans still quote today. It laid the groundwork for Damon’s wide-ranging career.
Bourne Franchise and Action Stardom
Damon portrays Jason Bourne, who has transformed the spy thriller genre starting in 2002. The Bourne Identity marked the beginning of a franchise that blended an intelligent narrative with fast-paced action. His character of the killer who did not remember his identity was mythical.
Key Bourne highlights include:
- Groundbreaking fight choreography
- Global chases and realistic stunts
- Four main films plus a spin-off
The franchise grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide. Damon’s physical commitment, his rigorous training for fights, reinforced his standing as an action hero.
Dramatic Roles and Oscar Wins
Damon got his first Oscar nomination for acting in Good Will Hunting and later won Best Actor as a producer. He stood out in dramas like The Departed, directed by Martin Scorsese, where he played an undercover cop in Boston’s crime scene.
Notable dramatic turns:
- The Talented Mr. Ripley is the chilling impostor.
- Invictus portrays a South African rugby captain.
- The Martian survives alone on Mars.
His performance in The Martian got great reviews and did very well at the box office. Damon’s relatable style stands out in these realistic roles.
Lifelong Friendship with Ben Affleck
Damon and Affleck have been friends since their days in Cambridge, Massachusetts. They have worked together many times, from writing movies to producing through their company, Artists Equity.
Recent joint projects include:
- Air about Nike’s Jordan deal
- The Last Duel is a historical drama
- Upcoming The Rip thriller
Their chemistry appears real on screen. Off-screen, they support each other’s families and careers, making their partnership endearing.
The Jimmy Kimmel Feud Revival
The feigned competition with Jimmy Kimmel dates back to 2005, when Kimmel joked about no longer having time to speak with Damon when Damon was not even set to be on the show. It became a succession of comic tricks over the years.
Latest chapter in January 2026:
- Affleck delivered Damon’s sarcastic congratulations note on Kimmel’s award.
- Damon quipped about cancellation sympathy.
- Kimmel called it “not nice” but treasured it.
Fans love their playful jokes. It helps keep both of them fun and relatable.
Upcoming Thriller The Rip
Netflix’s The Rip brings Damon and Affleck back together as Miami cops who discover millions in cartel money. Directed by Joe Carnahan, the exciting trailer was just released and has fans looking forward to the movie.
Plot tensions involve:
- On-site money counting protocols
- Trust fraying among the team
- Defending against dangerous outsiders
Releasing January 16, 2026, it promises gritty action and ethical issues. Early buzz calls it a can’t-miss event.
Starring in Nolan’s The Odyssey
Damon stars as Odysseus in Christopher Nolan’s big-screen version of Homer’s Odyssey. Filmed with new IMAX technology, the movie also features stars like Tom Holland and Anne Hathaway.
Recent highlights:
- NBC Winter Olympics promo tying themes of perseverance
- Damon dropped to high school weight for transformation.
- Trailer teases mythical battles and journeys.
The Odyssey is set to release on July 17, 2026, and is expected to be a big summer hit. Nolan’s direction brings new life to the classic story.
Why Matt Damon Trends Nationwide
In January 2026, Matt Damon trends thanks to perfect timing. The Kimmel feud revival via Affleck’s note went viral, mixing nostalgia with fresh laughs.
Compounding factors:
- The Rip trailer excitement ahead of the Netflix drop
- Olympics ad hyping The Odyssey
- His persistent appeal in a busy news cycle
Damon’s projects are comedy, action, and prestige. He is a humble, consistent talent valued by fans. From a breakthrough writer-actor to a blockbuster star, Damon has changed and still remains down to earth.
Americans can identify with his loyalty to Boston and his family orientation. In the midst of The Rip coming and The Odyssey gaining some hype, Matt Damon starts off 2026. His name will remain in the limelight during the year.
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