February 19, 2025: Actress, producer, and writer Mindy Kaling was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating her remarkable career with a ceremony attended by close friends and peers, including her ex-boyfriend, BJ Novak.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Kaling praised Novak, calling him an essential part of her family. She shared, “He’s such an important and integral part of my family… Sometimes I forget that the reason that I know him is because we worked together professionally.” The pair met in 2004 on the set of The Office and dated on and off until 2007. Despite their past romantic involvement, Kaling and Novak have remained close, with Novak taking on the role of godparent to Kaling’s three children.
Novak also spoke during the ceremony, acknowledging Kaling’s many achievements, including her success as a showrunner, an incredible mother to three children, and a loving daughter, friend, and mentor. He humorously added, “She is also very superficial in her spare time,” making the audience laugh.
Although Kaling’s children, Katherine Swati (7), Anne (1), and Spencer Avu (4), were not at the ceremony, Novak’s role as their godparent fueled speculation about whether he might also be their father. However, Kaling has always firmly denied these rumors, stating she will reveal the identity of her children’s father only when she feels the time is right, and after discussing it with them first.
The ceremony was a testament to Kaling’s achievements, not only in the entertainment industry but also as a devoted friend and family member.