Jason Bateman's portrayal of Marty Byrde, a financial advisor turned Ozark kingpin, was a masterclass in nuanced acting. Complementing his character's complexity was his on-screen partner, Laura Linney, who played his wife Wendy. Together, they formed a compelling duo, navigating the dark waters of the Ozarks. As the series progressed, their characters' troubled relationship captivated audiences, making them a fan-favorite couple.

However, little did we know that their on-screen chemistry could translate seamlessly to their off-screen dynamic, showcasing a bond stemming from mutual love and admiration. So much so that even the actor, Jason Bateman, agrees Linney could qualify as his wife.

Speaking on his Smartless Podcast chat session with Laura Linney, Jason Bateman recently expressed his admiration and sheer respect that he harbors for his on-screen Queenpin wife and all things Ozark in the one-hour-long exchange. He jokingly referred to her as his top choice for a second partner, following his wife, Amanda Aksa. Bateman said, "I love, if you could, if you could pick a second wife, she would be it." While the duo, along with the co-host, laughed it off, only fans can imagine what a banger duo that would be.

Bateman emphasized the significance of their on-screen partnership, noting that they had a unique connection that made the show work. He implied that Linney was irreplaceable in her role, suggesting that she brought a special something to the character of Wendy Byrde that couldn't be replicated by anyone else. And like wives too, Linney did not hold back Jason Bateman's one lesser-known fact that took everyone aback.

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Their instances of praising each other go a long way ever since they appeared together on the hit series and did every interview forever.

Earlier this year in May, the 60-year-old Laura Linney appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and praised her favorite co-star, Jason Bateman. She affectionately called him "that nasty guy" and credited his genius for making the show enjoyable for the entire cast and crew. Linney said, recalled how with a unique environment and warmth, he "put together the entire show," and expressed admiration for his work.

Linney confessed that she misses working with Bateman and the team "every single day". She reflected on her experience, saying it was one of the few good things in her life that she lived to the fullest. Linney's heartfelt comments highlight the strong bond she formed with her co-stars and the positive impact the show had on her life.

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What are your thoughts on the chemistry between Jason Bateman and Laura Linney on and off the screen? Let us know in the comments below.