Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued an apology following remarks considered disrespectful toward singer Kylie Minogue during a podcast interview. The incident occurred on the program Bush Deep, hosted by comedian Nikki Osborne, where Albanese was asked a “shag, marry or date” question involving Minogue, actress Nicole Kidman, and entertainer Rhonda Burchmore.

Albanese, 63, initially sought to deflect the query by citing his recent marriage, stating he was “only six months in.” However, when Osborne pressed on whether he would choose Minogue if his marriage ended, Albanese responded, “Kylie clearly.” When Osborne asked if he would marry, date, or have a relationship with her, Albanese replied, “All of the above. She’s terrific.” The prime minister later issued an unequivocal apology for the remarks.

The comments drew criticism from political figures and commentators. Sarah Henderson, shadow communications minister, described Albanese’s response as “disrespectful to women,” calling it “embarrassing to Australians” and degrading the dignity of the prime minister’s office. Henderson further argued that the incident contradicted Albanese’s position as leader of Australia’s first majority female government, which she characterized as a champion for gender equality.

Political columnist Andrew Bolt also condemned the prime minister’s remarks, deeming them “pathetic” and a “trashing of political standards.” Writing in a national newspaper, Bolt labeled the comments disrespectful not only to Minogue, 58, but also to Albanese’s wife, Jodie Haydon, 47. He remarked that in more traditional political environments, a query of this nature would have prompted a stronger dismissal.

In response to the controversy, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles reaffirmed the government’s commitment to gender equality, highlighting the balanced composition of the current cabinet. Speaking to ABC, Marles emphasized that the Albanese-led administration is the first in Australian history to feature equal numbers of men and women in cabinet positions.

Kylie Minogue has not publicly commented on the incident.