The Australian Prime Minister issued an official apology after facing heavy criticism for remarks made during a podcast interview, in which he spoke about famous singer Kylie Minogue in a disrespectful manner toward women.
The controversy erupted after Anthony Albanese appeared on the Bush Deep Podcast hosted by comedian and presenter Nikki Osborne, known for edgy humor and asking bold, unconventional questions.
During the roughly 20-minute interview, Osborne posed a "Shag, Marry or Date" game question, asking Albanese to choose whether he would have sex with, marry, or date three women: singer Kylie Minogue, Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman, and singer-actress Rhonda Burchmore.
At first, Albanese tried to avoid answering, saying he had only been married for six months.
However, after Osborne pressed him several times, he responded, "Well, Kylie... definitely."
The host then asked, "So you would marry Kylie, have sex with Kylie, and date Kylie?"
Albanese replied, "All of that. She's wonderful."
These answers quickly sparked criticism, with many viewing his comments as inappropriate for a national leader.
Independent MP Zali Steggall said the remarks were highly inappropriate and added that the Prime Minister should have refused to participate, demonstrating leadership and pointing out the sexist nature of the questions.
Meanwhile, opposition shadow communications minister Sarah Henderson posted on platform X that Albanese's comments disrespected women, embarrassed Australians, and undermined the dignity of the Prime Minister's office.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, acting as Prime Minister during Albanese’s visits to Pacific countries, stated that the government has always prioritized promoting gender equality and emphasized that the current cabinet is Australia’s first with equal numbers of male and female ministers.
Besides this issue, during the same interview, Albanese was asked about the strangest gift he had received while abroad. He recalled receiving two melons from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, prompting the host to jokingly remark that she entered like Pamela Anderson.
The backlash led Anthony Albanese to issue a brief statement on Monday, saying, "I unreservedly apologize for the comments I made," regarding his inappropriate references to singer Kylie Minogue.
. Source:BBC
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