Will Arnett doesn't shy away from a difficult conversation, and he certainly doesn't hesitate to cut one short. The actor recently revealed a startling story about an interview gone wrong on his popular podcast,SmartLess, hosted with Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes.
Arnett described a recent guest – a “very famous comedian” – as a “f*ing rank ahole.” The behavior was so appalling, so immediately off-putting, that the hosts made a swift decision. They terminated the interview after just ten minutes, offering a polite “Thanks so much” before effectively dismissing the comedian.
TheSmartLesspodcast is built on genuine connection, a space for thoughtful dialogue and unexpected humor. The premise involves one host surprising the others with a mystery guest, fostering a natural and often hilarious dynamic. This particular instance, however, shattered that carefully cultivated atmosphere.
Arnett playfully hinted at the comedian’s identity, suggesting the reveal would be shocking – “You’ll be blown away,” he said, jokingly comparing it to interviewing Bill Cosby. He remained tight-lipped during the broadcast, promising to share the name with Romesh Ranganathan off-air.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Arnett also recounted another comedian requesting that her episode *not* be released. While financially frustrating, the hosts complied, recognizing the guest’s concerns about her rising career. They ultimately agreed she was talented, and their decision proved prescient.
The podcast itself recently faced scrutiny following an episode with singer Charli XCX. A discussion about having children led to a surprising revelation: Charli doesn’t want kids. The conversation took an awkward turn when Jason Bateman suggested she might change her mind after finding the right partner.
The comment was particularly jarring given that Charli XCX is, in fact, already married to George Daniel of The 1975 – a fact seemingly unknown to the hosts. Bateman quickly acknowledged his oversight, joking about her “next husband,” but the moment sparked criticism from listeners who deemed it outdated and insensitive.
While the podcast occasionally navigates uncomfortable territory, it remains a platform for candid conversations. Arnett’s willingness to share these behind-the-scenes stories – the triumphs and the awkward encounters – offers a rare glimpse into the unpredictable world of celebrity interviews and the challenges of creating authentic content.
