Ben Platt Praised for Talent by Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers Amid Criticism
Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers defended Ben Platt against political and nepotism criticism, praising his talent and viral award-show performance.
Bowen Yang and 
Matt Rogers are standing up for 
Ben Platt after the actor and singer faced renewed online criticism. On their Las Culturistas podcast, the hosts addressed claims that Platt is a Zionist and dismissed them as “bulls-t,” noting he has publicly voiced opposing views. They also defended his performance chops, pointing to his viral cover of Addison Rae’s Diet Pepsi at the recent Las Culturistas Culture Awards on Bravo.
Platt has dealt with years of public scrutiny, from being labeled a “nepo baby” due to his father, producer Marc Platt, to backlash over his age in Dear Evan Hansen. He has acknowledged his privileged start but says his career is now self-driven.
In April 2025, Platt distanced himself from Israel’s military actions in Gaza, sharing a pro-Palestine speech by actor 
Hannah Einbinder. Rogers called Platt “one of the best singers on Earth,” praising his talent, kindness, and staying power.