Anthony Albanese issues unconditional apology as political leaders criticise comments made during comedy interview
CANBERRA: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued an unequivocal apology on Monday after comments he made about pop star Kylie Minogue during a comedy podcast interview triggered widespread criticism from politicians and the public.
In a brief statement, Albanese said: “I apologise unequivocally for the comments.”
The controversy arose after the prime minister appeared on comedian Nikki Osborne’s Bush Deep podcast, where he was asked to choose whether he would “shag, marry or date” singer Kylie Minogue, actress Nicole Kidman or entertainer Rhonda Burchmore.
Initially attempting to avoid the question by noting that he had recently married his wife, Jodie Haydon, Albanese eventually replied, “Oh, Kylie, clearly.” When Osborne jokingly suggested he would “marry, shag and date” Minogue, the prime minister responded, “All of the above. She’s terrific.”
The interview was recorded at the prime minister’s official residence in Canberra and released last week.
Political leaders criticise remarks
The comments prompted criticism from across Australia’s political spectrum. Independent MP Zali Steggall described the remarks as “entirely inappropriate,” arguing that leaders should challenge sexist questions rather than participate in them.
Meanwhile, Shadow Communications Minister Sarah Henderson said the comments were disrespectful to women, embarrassing for Australians and unbecoming of the office of prime minister.
The podcast host, Nikki Osborne, is known for provocative comedy content. Her website describes her as a “wildly inappropriate journalist” who asks unconventional questions.
Government responds amid criticism
Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles defended the government’s broader commitment to gender equality while acknowledging that politicians sometimes participate in less formal interviews.
Marles highlighted that Albanese’s administration is Australia’s first federal government to achieve gender parity in the cabinet, describing equality as a core priority.
During the same interview, Albanese also recalled receiving two melons as a gift from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during an overseas visit. Osborne responded with a joke that also drew attention after the podcast’s release.
The apology comes as Albanese continues an official visit to the Pacific while the controversy remains a topic of political debate in Australia.
