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Jason Bateman Criticized for Pressing Charli XCX on Not Having Kids During SmartLess Interview

No apology or new statement has been issued following the viral clips.

Overview

  • During the podcast, Charli XCX said she does not want children and noted her view could change, explaining that liking the idea of naming a baby signals she is not ready.
  • Bateman suggested she might change her mind based on his wife’s experience, then learned Charli is married to The 1975 drummer George Daniel and joked he needed to read a newspaper before adding, “Your next husband, you’re gonna want kids.”
  • Listeners on X and Reddit condemned the exchange as tone-deaf and pressuring, while some defended the moment by citing SmartLess’ surprise-guest format that limits host preparation.
  • Co-host Sean Hayes said he also does not want kids, and Charli was on the show to promote her A24 film The Moment.
  • Coverage noted Charli has previously addressed ambivalence about motherhood in her 2024 song I Think About It All the Time, and outlets reported no immediate responses from representatives.