Fox News hosts spark backlash over comments about Barron Trump’s private life
Jesse Watters and Julie Banderas criticized after on-air discussion speculating about the president’s teenage son
Fox News hosts Jesse Watters and Julie Banderas are facing criticism after a live segment veered into speculation about 19-year-old Barron Trump’s private life, prompting viewer backlash and concerns over privacy boundaries.
Barron Trump, the youngest son of President Donald Trump and Melania Trump, recently made headlines after Page Six reported that he had gone on a date at Trump Tower in New York City.
According to the report, the Secret Service temporarily cleared an entire floor of the building for security reasons while Barron and his date spent time together. The 19-year-old, now a sophomore at New York University’s Stern School of Business, has generally kept a low profile since beginning his college studies.
A segment that crossed a line
During the September 30 broadcast of Jesse Watters Primetime, Watters and fellow Fox News host Julie Banderas discussed the Page Six story. The exchange, which began as light commentary about Barron’s rumored date, quickly drew attention for its tone.
“He brought her back to Trump Tower. He shut the whole floor down just so he could be alone,” Watters said, referencing the report. He then read quotes from classmates describing Barron as “tall and awkward” but “popular with the ladies.”
Banderas responded, “If the guy’s a Trump, I believe it. Man, this guy’s got game. Six-foot-seven, and he’s got a whole floor at Trump Tower for a date. I hope something good came out of that date for him.”
Watters replied with a laugh, “Something not too good. He needs to wait.”
Their comments, which included euphemisms implying sexual activity, have been widely criticized online as inappropriate, given Barron’s age and his continued status as a private citizen.
I’m back with @JesseBWatters tonight! Our favorite time on Tuesday’s is coming up at 8:45pm ET! @FoxNews pic.twitter.com/wPaKEFZJ4e
— Julie Banderas (@JulieBanderas) September 3, 2025
Public reaction and privacy debate
Social media users expressed outrage, arguing that public figures and media personalities should respect the privacy of a teenager who has largely stayed out of politics. Critics noted that, while Barron’s father remains a prominent political figure, his son has not sought public attention.
Others called the exchange “creepy” and “unprofessional,” saying the segment crossed ethical lines for televised commentary.
Barron Trump has rarely been the focus of media coverage, with both of his parents — particularly Melania Trump — known for maintaining strict privacy around him. Sources close to the family have said that Melania remains protective of her son as he continues his studies.
Neither Jesse Watters nor Julie Banderas has commented publicly on the backlash. Fox News has also not issued an official statement regarding the segment.
