Ben Affleck talks ‘Batman’ in front of Senate

Ben Affleck appeared alongside Bill Gates in front of the Senate on Thursday to speak about his philanthropic efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Though the talks were about something Affleck takes very seriously, he couldn't help but lighten up the mood by slipping in some discussion about his upcoming movie, "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice."

The actor took the chance in front of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs to mention Vermont Sen. Patrick's Leahy's role in the new movie.

"I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my co-star in 'Batman,'" Affleck said, referencing Leahy, "[Your] role is marginally smaller than mine, but I understand that you are quite good."

Leahy is a known Batman fan and has appeared in Batman movies in the past.

The Senator had small parts in "Batman & Robin" with George Clooney and "The Dark Knight Rises" with Christian Bale as well as voiced a character in an animated Batman series.

Gates and Affleck are founders of the program Eastern Congo Initiative which helps farming families in the Congo.

The two were appearing before the Senate to testify about public-private partnerships that would help the African country.