SmartLess Podcast Faces Backlash Over Charli XCX’s Childfree Choice

Jason Bateman Faces Backlash After Podcast Exchange with Charli XCX

Jason Bateman is receiving criticism following a recent conversation on his podcast, SmartLess, with singer Charli XCX regarding her decision not to have children. The exchange, which aired on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, has sparked online debate about the appropriateness of questioning someone about their personal reproductive choices.

During the episode, Charli XCX discussed her upbringing as an only child and how her parents were supportive of her career, even accompanying her to raves early in her performing life. She noted that growing up without siblings meant she didn’t learn to navigate conflict until later in life. Bateman then asked the 33-year-old singer about her potential desire for children, to which she responded, “I actually don’t really want to have kids.”

Charli XCX elaborated, stating that while she enjoys the “fantasy of having a child, like naming it,” she recognizes that this enjoyment is “exactly a sign to me as to why I should not have one… maybe I’m not ready.”

Bateman followed up by sharing a personal anecdote about his wife, Amanda Anka, initially not wanting children but later changing her mind. He suggested to Charli XCX, “So you might find somebody.” Charli responded by informing Bateman that she is already married, to The 1975 drummer George Daniel.

While the exchange was largely amicable, with Charli XCX laughing off Bateman’s comment, some fans expressed concern online, interpreting Bateman’s line of questioning as putting undue pressure on a woman to have children. Some also criticized Bateman for appearing unprepared for the interview.

SmartLess operates on a unique format where one host brings on a guest without informing the other two, who then ask questions spontaneously. The podcast launched during the pandemic as a casual project for friends Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. Hayes, who brought Charli XCX onto the show, had prepared questions beforehand, including discovering the origin of her stage name – a former MSN screen name.

This improvisational approach has contributed to the podcast’s success, leading to a multiyear deal reportedly exceeding $100 million with SiriusXM, a Golden Globe nomination, and a reputation for unscripted conversations. However, as evidenced by the recent episode, this format can also lead to awkward or controversial moments.

Charli XCX appeared on the podcast to promote her A24 film, The Moment. Despite the controversy, she demonstrated an ability to handle conflict, a skill she acknowledged she had to develop later in life due to her upbringing as an only child.

Representatives for SmartLess and SiriusXM did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the backlash.