Penn Badgley is back in the spotlight as he returns for the fifth and final season of You, the hit Netflix psychological thriller. But beyond his chilling portrayal of Joe Goldberg, Badgley has built a multifaceted career, with ventures into music, podcasting, and advocacy. Here’s a closer look at the actor’s life, from his family to his career milestones.
Penn Badgley’s Marriage and Family
Badgley has been married to Domino Kirke, a singer and doula, since 2017. The couple, who first met in 2014 at a New York meatball shop, share a 4-year-old son named James. Recently, they announced they’re expecting twins. Badgley is also a proud stepfather to Kirke’s teenage son, Cassius Riley, from a previous relationship.
Despite the challenges of blended family dynamics, Badgley has expressed deep respect for his stepson’s father, acknowledging his own role as a supportive figure.
Penn Badgley’s Age and Background
Born on November 1, 1986, Penn Dayton Badgley is 38 years old. His name has a unique origin — he was named after a Penn tennis ball, which his father was playing with during his mother’s ultrasound.
Standing at 5’ 8.5” (1.74 meters), Badgley has previously shared insecurities about his height, admitting to grappling with body image issues during his youth.
Education and Early Life
Badgley attended St. Christopher’s School in Virginia and Charles Wright Academy in Washington. After his family moved to Los Angeles when he was 11, he pursued acting while also being homeschooled. Interestingly, he was classmates with his future Gossip Girl co-star and former girlfriend Blake Lively.
By age 13, Badgley had graduated high school and began taking community college courses, balancing academics and his budding career.
Breakthrough with Gossip Girl
Badgley’s big break came in 2007 when he starred as Dan Humphrey in the CW’s Gossip Girl. Despite initial reluctance to take the role, fearing it was too similar to previous work, he eventually accepted and became a household name. The series ran for six seasons until 2012.
Although Badgley has reflected on his frustrations with the show, he acknowledges it as a defining part of his career.
Career Beyond Gossip Girl
Following his Gossip Girl fame, Badgley showcased his versatility with roles in films like Easy A (2010) and John Tucker Must Die (2006). However, his career took a darker turn with You, where his portrayal of the dangerously obsessive Joe Goldberg earned him widespread acclaim.
Music Career
Not just an actor, Badgley is also a talented musician. He is the lead singer of the indie band MOTHXR, which released its debut album, Centerfold, in 2016. Known for tracks like “Easy” and “Stranger,” the band has gained a dedicated following.
Podcasting and Advocacy
Badgley is also a successful podcaster. His show Podcrushed features celebrity guests discussing their teenage experiences. Notable guests have included Ariana Grande, Leighton Meester, and Jenna Ortega. With over 100 episodes, the podcast has become a chart-topping success.
In addition to his entertainment career, Badgley has been vocal about social and spiritual issues. As a member of the Baha’i Faith, he has spoken out about the mental toll of social media and the importance of authentic connections.
Penn Badgley’s Net Worth
With his diverse career, Badgley has amassed an estimated net worth of $8 million. His acting roles, music career, and podcasting ventures have contributed significantly to his wealth.
Looking Ahead
As You concludes its final season, fans are eager to see what’s next for Badgley. Whether he continues exploring music, storytelling through podcasts, or takes on new acting challenges, his creative journey remains one to watch.
