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Madison Pettis Labels Ex-Boyfriend Michael Porter Jr. a "Psychopath"

3/15/2026, 9:41:45 AM

Background on the Relationship

Madison Pettis, a former Disney Channel actress, recently discussed her past relationship with NBA player Michael Porter Jr. during an appearance on the podcast "In Your Dreams With Owen Thiele." The couple dated from 2016 to mid-2017, a period when Porter was transitioning from high school to college basketball. He was drafted 14th overall by the Denver Nuggets in the 2018 NBA Draft and later won an NBA Championship with the team in 2023 before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets.

Pettis's Claims About Porter

During the podcast, Pettis described her ex-boyfriend as a "psychopath," stating, "I broke up with him before he was in the league because he was a psychopath." While she did not elaborate on her reasoning, she expressed a general skepticism about athletes as partners, saying, "I do think a lot of athletes are not great partners, but I wouldn't rule it out because I do love what they do." Pettis's comments have sparked discussions about the challenges of dating athletes, particularly in light of Porter's controversial remarks about relationships.

Michael Porter Jr.'s Controversial Views

Porter Jr. has made headlines for his outspoken views on relationships and women's roles. He has been quoted discussing the importance of ensuring that women are with him for the right reasons, stating, "It's very hard when you have money... to tell a woman's intentions." He has also mentioned using polarizing figures like Andrew Tate to gauge women's reactions during dates. In a recent podcast appearance, he emphasized that he expects partners to "bring something to the table," which he defined as positivity and support.

Criticism & Opposition

Pettis's characterization of Porter as a "psychopath" has drawn attention to the dynamics of their relationship and the broader implications of Porter's views on women. Critics argue that his statements reflect a troubling attitude towards relationships, suggesting a transactional view rather than one based on mutual respect. This perspective has led to discussions about the pressures faced by women in relationships with high-profile athletes.

Official Statements & Responses

As of now, Michael Porter Jr. has not publicly responded to Pettis's comments. However, he has previously acknowledged that his team advised him to avoid discussing certain topics, indicating an awareness of the potential backlash from his remarks.

What's Next

The fallout from Pettis's comments and Porter's controversial views may lead to further scrutiny of their past relationship and ongoing discussions about the expectations placed on athletes in their personal lives. As both figures continue to navigate their careers, their interactions and public statements will likely remain a point of interest for fans and commentators alike.