‘Privileged’: Luke Bateman book drama explained

Is Luke Bateman a legit author or just a good looking, straight white bloke that fit comfortably into the cowboy fantasies of a subset of a particularly voracious romance reading community of women? Confidential unpacks the drama here.

He’s the former Bachelor star and Canberra Raiders footballer that has sent BookTok into frenzy around the world.

Confidential is intrigued to have seen the blow up over Luke Bateman’s move into the fantasy book world after news broke the 30-year-old QLD “pine cutter” had signed a major publishing deal.

But what is really going on? Here, we do a deep dive into the furore surrounding the handsome chap.

Essentially, some are not happy about Bateman’s deal, largely because of the fact his journey from footy and reality TV to signed author happened so incredibly quickly.

He started a TikTok account and began sharing book related content in late April and within weeks he’d blown up with his following since reaching 178,000 users.

Former Canberra Raiders player Luke Bateman has signed a two-book deal. Picture: supplied

The book loving community within TikTok is referred to as BookTok and is dominated by, but not exclusively made up of, women who read romance and fantasy books.

Bateman had posted just 27 videos in which he reviewed, reacted, and discussed his love of fantasy novels and managed to secure a two-book deal with Simon & Schuster.

But as the news of his enviable contract dropped, the reaction online was swift and divisive.

There may be something undeniably charming about a wholesome bloke lighting up while discussing fantasy stories. But does being aesthetic to the eye mean he shouldn’t have the opportunity, even if he is actually good at writing?

He is however untested to the public, which has served to increase scepticism among his critics about his credentials.

Luke Bateman

Is he a legit author or just a good looking, straight white bloke that fit comfortably into the cowboy romance fantasies of a subset of a particularly voracious romance reading community of women.

Many BookTok users have understandably questioned how an influencer with no published manuscript or writing background managed to land such a prestigious deal so quickly.

Confidential wonders the difference when good looking influencers score lucrative brand deals by showing off ripped body shots on social media.

Critics were also quick to point out the industry’s longstanding inequalities.

“A white man getting a book deal without having written anything? My jaw stayed right where it was,” one TikTok user commented.

“This opportunity is the intersection of white privilege, male privilege, and pretty privilege. Not a reflection of worth,” another wrote.

Content creator and activist Jeff Kissubi also stitched his own take.

“Race and privilege shape who get the shortcuts,” Kissubi said in the video.

“Black and marginalised authors especially women and gender-diverse creatives are out here with finished, powerful stories that still get overlooked.”

Former NRL player Luke Bateman, , Australian model Ben Waddel and Brazilian influencer Wesley Senna Cortes Are The Bachelors Australia 2023. Picture: Ten

Speaking to Chattr last week, Bateman shared that the criticism had encouraged him to reflect on his position and privilege and has had a story in his head for the past year.

“Obviously, a lot of these conversations are very new to me, and I wholeheartedly understand that so many people have felt let down by the industry,” he said.

“I have so much empathy, love, and grace for people who struggle and I have no idea what they’ve been through in their life, the challenges they’ve faced or you know the discrimination.

“I obviously have advantages that other people don’t. How do I capitalise on those to help lift everyone up?”

Bateman said he would use his platform to amplify marginalised voices by reviewing and promoting indie and self-published authors on his TikTok.

“We can hold two truths at the same time,” he added.

“I can still feel very satisfied, and I can still hold a lot of joy for myself, while also understanding that there are other battles fought by people and that I can help with. You know, those two things don’t have to be separate things, those two truths can be held simultaneously.”

Former NRL player Luke Bateman is one of The Bachelors Australia 2023. Picture: Ten

Even publishing professionals have weighed in on the drama.

Literary agent Alice Sutherland-Hawes shared her take on the controversy on TikTok.

“Publishing is a business … Luke was a celebrity in Australia before any of this BookTok stuff kicked off … and he has been working on this book for a really long time. I actually think the vitriol being thrown at him is really unnecessary.”

Despite the noise, Bateman’s publisher remains confident in the project with the novel scheduled for release in early 2027.

“I’m beyond thrilled to be partnering with Luke on this wonderful series,” publisher Anthea Bariamis said.

“Not only is he incredibly talented, he’s also a big book nerd like I am, and he knows the power of storytelling. I feel so lucky to be his champion as he begins his author journey.”
Do you have a story for The Daily Telegraph? Message 0481 056 618 or email [e-mail]