Jason Sudeikis and Benny Blanco recently engaged in a candid discussion about tipping etiquette on Blanco's podcast, "Friends Keep Secrets." The conversation touched upon various aspects of tipping culture, including how to handle poor service and what percentage is considered appropriate.
During the podcast, Sudeikis, 50, expressed his view that leaving a 10% tip for subpar service is not an effective way to communicate dissatisfaction. He argued that such a tip, without further explanation, makes the diner appear as an "a���hole." According to Sudeikis, if a diner intends to tip less than standard, they should either speak to the server directly or leave a note explaining their reasoning, rather than simply leaving a low amount.
"I don't think it teaches anything, tipping poorly," Sudeikis stated. "If you're going to tip 10%, I think you got to give a note saying, 'I normally tip more, but you were so...' or say it to them."
Blanco, 38, and his co-hosts also weighed in on the subject. Blanco's co-host Kristin Batalucco mentioned that she feels obligated to tip at least 20%, while Lil Dicky noted that Blanco often calls him out for tipping a standard 20%. When Sudeikis inquired what percentage was expected instead, Lil Dicky suggested "30%, 35%."
Blanco explained his perspective that he only feels compelled to consider the tip amount when he is covering the bill for others. Sudeikis countered that this approach might create more anxiety for those involved.
The discussion has sparked reactions online, with some social media users expressing frustration that wealthy celebrities are debating tipping. Some commenters suggested that such discussions are out of touch, while others agreed that tipping culture in the U.S. has become excessive.
Recent years have seen various celebrity tipping incidents making headlines. In 2023, a Reddit user claimed Post Malone left a $3,000 tip at a restaurant. Additionally, Ashton Kutcher was noted for tipping a valet worker $100 in 2024. In 2020, a former New York City restaurant hostess shared her experiences with celebrity patrons, describing Gigi and Bella Hadid as polite and friendly, while reportedly finding Kylie Jenner to be a less generous tipper and Hailey Bieber to be rated low based on multiple encounters.