Pakistan, July 22 -- Matt Damon has shared an emotional tribute to his longtime friend Ben Affleck, recalling how the two encouraged each other long before becoming some of Hollywood's biggest stars. While promoting Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, Damon reflected on the friendship that has endured for decades, saying they believed in each other when few others did. Their bond, he explained, helped them pursue acting despite the long odds of success.

Looking back on their early years, Damon remembered traveling with Affleck as teenagers to attend auditions in New York. He said they supported one another while chasing opportunities, including auditions for The Mickey Mouse Club. Although their families stood behind them, Damon noted that ...