Matty 'J' Johnson has addressed criticism following his selection as the 2026 Australian Father of the Year, a title that sparked debate online. The Bachelor star responded to comments questioning the award and his qualifications, particularly after Influencer Updates podcaster Amber Paul described the choice as "strange" and potentially a marketing tactic for the host organization, The Fathering Project.
Paul, in a clip shared on Instagram, expressed bewilderment over the award's criteria, suggesting that Johnson's fame might have influenced the decision. This sentiment was echoed in the comments of her post, with some users questioning what "exceptional" actions qualified him and dismissing the award as an "absolute joke."
However, other social media users defended Johnson, pointing to his work on the podcast "Two Doting Dads" and his focus on men's mental health and vulnerability in parenting. Supporters cited his efforts to shed light on parenting challenges and his role in encouraging fathers to be more present and emotionally available.
In a video posted to Instagram, Johnson acknowledged the criticism, stating it made him "sad." He clarified that he did not wish to justify his win but wanted to inform the public about his involvement in the "parenting space." Johnson detailed his ambassadorships with three charities: the Australian Childhood Foundation, which supports children in the foster care system; the Starlight Foundation, assisting seriously ill children; and Movember, focused on men's mental health awareness.
He also highlighted his podcast, "Two Doting Dads," which he has hosted for three years and garners approximately 100,000 listeners monthly. Johnson stated that the podcast aims to normalize the struggles faced by parents and features experts discussing topics such as child safety, bodily autonomy, miscarriage, sobriety, and postnatal depression. He expressed his hope that his advocacy for more involved and emotionally available fathers would be recognized.
Johnson's response garnered support from his followers, including his wife, Laura Byrne, a fellow Bachelor star. Comments praised his work with charities and his role as an advocate for young fathers, emphasizing the importance of normalizing open conversations about parenting. Johnson and Byrne, who met on the fifth season of The Bachelor Australia in 2017, have three daughters: Marlie-Mae, Lola, and Poppy Pearl.