Jason Bateman Faces Backlash After Questioning Charli xcx About Kids on SmartLess Podcast

Jason Bateman is facing criticism online following a moment on the latest episode of the SmartLess podcast in which he questioned Charli xcx about having children — and suggested she might eventually change her mind.

The Grammy-winning artist appeared on the podcast to promote her upcoming A24 film The Moment. During the conversation, Bateman, who shares two daughters with wife Amanda Anka, steered the discussion toward parenthood.

He asked Charli whether she envisioned having multiple children or raising a single child, referencing her own experience growing up as an only child. Charli responded candidly, saying she doesn’t want kids.

That answer prompted co-host Sean Hayes to ask why, while acknowledging it was a personal question. Hayes shared that he also doesn’t plan to have children, explaining that he would rather regret not having kids than regret becoming a parent.

Charli elaborated on her perspective, noting that while the idea of having a child can sound appealing in theory — particularly fun aspects like choosing a name — that realization actually reinforces why she doesn’t feel parenting is right for her.

Bateman then chimed in with a personal anecdote, suggesting that people’s views on having children can evolve. He shared that his wife had once felt similarly before their relationship, adding that Charli “might find somebody” who changes her mind.

Charli quickly corrected him, responding simply, “I am married,” referring to her husband, George Daniel of The 1975.

Bateman appeared surprised by the revelation, joking that he needed to read the news more often. He then added another comment — framed as a joke — suggesting that a future husband might make her want kids, which sparked further backlash online.

The SmartLess podcast, co-hosted by Bateman, Hayes, and Will Arnett, is known for its format in which only one host knows the guest in advance. That setup often leads to spontaneous interviews and may explain Bateman’s lack of familiarity with Charli’s personal life.

Still, listeners and fans were quick to react. As reported by The Independent, many social media users criticized Bateman’s remarks, describing the exchange as uncomfortable and inappropriate. On X, some called the segment “hard to listen to,” while a Reddit user wrote, “Why does society continue to pressure women, in particular, about having kids?”

Charli herself remained composed throughout the conversation, calmly standing by her choices as the discussion unfolded.