Australian PM apologises for 'inappropriate' comments about Kylie Minogue
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued an unequivocal apology after a joke he made about pop star Kylie Minogue during a podcast interview sparked a backlash for perceived sexism.
Albanese was a guest on the comedy‑focused “Bush Deep” podcast hosted by YouTuber Nikki Osborne. When Osborne asked whether he would “shag, marry or date” Minogue, the Prime Minister answered, “Oh, Kylie, clearly.” The comment was taken in context of his sitting in the official Canberra residence and quickly drew condemnation from fellow parliamentarians and the public.
Early Monday, Albanese stated, “I apologise unequivocally for the comments.” The apology follows statements by senior officials affirming the government’s historic commitment to gender equality in cabinet.
Osborne, noted for her brash humor and “wildly inappropriate journalist” persona, launched her podcast earlier this year. Many critics argue the remarks highlight the need for respectful, gender‑sensitive language when leaders speak to the nation.
During the interview, Albanese also answered other questions, including those about the worst gift he received on a foreign trip. He described a “strange” but otherwise pleasant gift of two melons from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
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