Importance Score: 22 / 100 🔵
Amy Poehler and Will Arnett’s Divorce Humorously Addressed on “Smartless” Podcast
During Amy Poehler’s recent guest appearance on the popular “Smartless” podcast, co-host Jason Bateman playfully seized the opportunity to ask her and former spouse Will Arnett to delve into the specifics of their well-known split. This lighthearted yet unexpected inquiry initiated a moment of candid and humorous exchange between the former couple on the widely listened to podcast.
“So, Amy and Will, how did you two initially encounter each other?” Bateman, 56, quipped during the Monday, April 21, episode of “Smartless,” which immediately drew laughter from both Poehler and Arnett, as well as fellow host Sean Hayes. “We’re going to delve into this. At what point did things begin to fracture in your relationship?” he further probed with a smile.
Poehler’s presence on the podcast came as a genuine surprise for Arnett, 54, and Bateman, as they are typically kept in the dark regarding Hayes’ invited guests each week. The “Smartless” podcast operates uniquely: each of the trio takes turns inviting a guest, maintaining secrecy from the other two co-hosts until showtime. For this particular episode, Hayes, 54, extended the invitation to Poehler, 53, creating an unanticipated reunion.
Prior to commencing the interview with Poehler, Hayes provided a concise overview of the history of Poehler and Arnett’s relationship for the audience – and also for his sister, Tracey. As devoted “Smartless” listeners are aware, Hayes often offers background details and industry insights to ensure his sister stays informed about celebrity narratives.
Hayes further elaborated, stating, “The two of you were once married, and now you are not, and many years have passed, and everything is, seemingly, going remarkably well,” which spurred further laughter among the hosts and guest.
While Arnett jokingly claimed he had previously asked Poehler to appear on the podcast, Bateman inquired whether Hayes had first “floated” the concept of inviting the Parks and Recreation alumna to “Smartless” by consulting her former husband.
Poehler responded playfully, “What are you all discussing? Why is there a necessity to seek anyone’s permission for anything? By the way, gentlemen, a warm welcome. It’s lovely to be here.” She added with a touch of jest, “Honestly, you’re all emphasizing how unusual it is that I’m here. Hello, I am your guest. It’s a pleasure to see you. I am delighted to be present.”
Arnett and Poehler, who share parenthood of sons Archie, 16, and Abel, 14, concluded their nine-year marriage in 2012. Arnett initiated divorce proceedings two years later, with the legal separation finalized in 2016. (Subsequently, Arnett and his girlfriend Alessandra Brawn welcomed their son Alexander in 2020.)
Co-parenting Praises
Arnett, in turn, expressed considerable pride in his and Poehler’s co-parenting dynamic.
“Naturally, adjustments take time as everyone adapts to the evolved circumstances. Furthermore, I am deeply appreciative of what we have accomplished, particularly as co-parents. This aspect has been profoundly significant for both of us. I am truly fortunate to have her as a partner in this regard,” Arnett conveyed on the podcast, emphasizing their successful post-split relationship. “There are very few individuals with whom I communicate more frequently than her, which is perhaps unusual, but ultimately positive. I feel exceptionally fortunate.”
He further stated, “She continues to be someone with whom I discuss numerous matters. … She is the person I approach when considering options, be it regarding personal or professional endeavors, and I actively seek her guidance because it holds considerable importance for me, stemming from the trust I place in her judgment. She is truly remarkable.”