Mindy Kaling has publicly denied romantic rumors and paternity speculation involving her former co-star B.J. Novak [1, 2].
The clarification addresses years of public speculation regarding the private lives of the two actors, who worked together on the television series *The Office*.
Kaling spoke with Bustle in an interview reported by Entertainment Tonight and MSN to set the record straight about her relationship with Novak [1, 2]. She said that Novak is a close family friend and a godfather to her children, but is not their biological father [2]. Kaling has three children [3].
"He’s a godfather and a huge support, but he’s not the biological father of my kids," Kaling said [2].
The actress acknowledged that the public perception of their bond could lead to such questions. "If I was just watching it from the outside, I would have the same questions and the same reactions," Kaling said [1].
Kaling said Novak is an integral part of her family [4]. This statement contradicts other rumors suggesting the two actors had a feud or disliked one another [5].
Separate reports indicate that Novak, 45, has been linked to TikTok creator Delaney Rowe [6]. Those rumors reportedly began in December when the pair were spotted together [6].
Kaling said the decision to speak out was driven by a desire to protect her children's privacy and stop ongoing speculation [2].
“"He’s a godfather and a huge support, but he’s not the biological father of my kids."”
The public's tendency to romanticize long-term platonic relationships between high-profile co-stars often leads to paternity and dating rumors. By explicitly defining Novak's role as a godfather and family friend, Kaling is attempting to decouple her children's identities from celebrity gossip while maintaining a supportive non-romantic partnership.
