Dax Shepard faces backlash over Sabrina Carpenter comments on Armchair Expert podcast

Dax Shepard draws criticism after suggesting Marcello Hernández should date Sabrina Carpenter

Dax Shepard has sparked online criticism following comments he made about Sabrina Carpenter during a recent episode of his Armchair Expert podcast, prompting some listeners to accuse the host of crossing a line.

According to UNILAD, the backlash stems from Shepard’s January 26 conversation with Saturday Night Live cast member Marcello Hernández. Toward the end of the episode, Shepard asked Hernández about his friendship with Carpenter, amid persistent online speculation suggesting the two might be romantically involved.

Shepard explained that his interest in Carpenter’s career began through his 10-year-old daughter, who is a fan of the singer’s music. He told listeners that he had attended one of Carpenter’s concerts and described himself as “newly obsessed” with her work, praising both her music and acting abilities.

The discussion shifted tone when Shepard joked that if he were Hernández’s age, he would try to date Carpenter, even suggesting marriage. The remark quickly drew criticism from some listeners, who felt the comments were inappropriate, particularly given Shepard’s own marital status.

Hernández responded by clarifying that he is in a committed relationship. He said he is dating a Dominican architect and emphasized that while Carpenter is “awesome,” their relationship is purely platonic.

Hernández also explained how he first interacted with Carpenter through his SNL character Domingo. In November 2024, he appeared at one of her Los Angeles concerts as part of a scripted comedic moment in which Carpenter playfully “arrested” him onstage. He described the experience as surreal and praised Carpenter for being enthusiastic and collaborative.

Social media reaction to the podcast exchange was swift. Several users criticized Shepard’s fixation on Carpenter, with some calling his comments “weird” and a “bad look.” Others, however, applauded Hernández for handling the situation respectfully and clearly affirming both his relationship status and his professional regard for Carpenter.