Jason Bateman has opened up about the online backlash sparked by a very recent podcast conversation. The particular podcast episode aired on February 2, 2026, and quickly drew criticism for Jason Bateman’s questions about Charli XCX’s stance on having children. During the discussion, Jason Bateman asked the pop star about her views on parenthood, a sensitive topic that has increasingly become part of broader cultural conversations about autonomy, career priorities, and societal expectations, and Charli XCX’s response took social media by a storm.In the interview, Charli XCX on her SmartLess podcast, she shared her experiences growing up as an only child. She stated clearly, “I actually don’t really want to have kids.” Jason Bateman responded by suggesting her views might evolve, noting they “could change” if she “might find someone” who influences her perspective. Charli XCX, who married George Daniel of The 1975 in July 2025, replied directly, “I’m married.” She went on to say the idea of naming a child seemed “so fun,” but added, “The that I like the part about it? Maybe I’m not ready.”

Fans react strongly

Social media erupted after the episode. One listener called it “one of the worst pieces of media of all time.” Others described Jason Bateman a “out of touch” for pressing the topic. This reaction intensified because Charli XCX has consistently expressed reluctance about parenthood over her nearly 20-year music career.

Jason Bateman responds

Jason Bateman, a father to daughters Francesca Nora Bateman, 19, and Maple Sylvie Bateman, 14, with wife Amanda Anka, addressed the controversy in a February 18, 2026, interview with The Hollywood Reporter. He explained, “We were enjoying a great discussion about her experiences growing up as an only child. It felt like a very natural follow-up. That’s all it was.” The 57-year-old actor from ‘Ozark’ and Arrested Development added, “I don’t have much else to say about it, except that it’s always fascinating, valuable, and enlightening to hear people’s thoughts, reactions, and feelings regarding anything I say or do.”The podcast setup left Jason Bateman unaware of Charli XCX’s long-held views on family. While some viewers saw the talk as casual chit-chat, it fueled broader discussions on personal boundaries in celebrity interviews.