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Jason Bateman Says He Reads Every Review, Laughs Off Early NYT 'Ozark' Slam

He frames feedback as relevant to work made for public consumption.

Overview

  • In a new Esquire interview, Bateman says he checks reactions from critics and viewers because audience response matters to him.
  • He describes himself as a people pleaser who still prioritizes personal equilibrium, saying he aims to keep his internal "weather" calm.
  • Bateman recalls a New York Times pan of Ozark’s pilot by critic Mike Hale that likened his performance to an airline gate agent.
  • He says the harsh phrasing made him laugh, noting he appreciates cleverly written criticism even when it stings.
  • Ozark went on to run four seasons on Netflix as Bateman earned four Emmy nominations, three Golden Globe nominations, and four SAG nods.