Penn Badgley is bravely shedding light on his personal battles with body image, recalling the struggles that preceded his rise to fame in “Gossip Girl” and “You.” During a recent interview with The Guardian, he opened up about his experiences with body dysmorphia, confessing that he never sought a formal diagnosis.
In his heartfelt reflection, Badgley candidly shared, “I know that I hated my body and simply wanted a different one.” This powerful statement echoes a struggle many face but rarely discuss openly.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, body dysmorphia, or body dysmorphic disorder, is defined as a mental health condition where individuals obsessively focus on perceived imperfections in their appearance. This can lead to severe mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
Reflecting on the causes of his struggles, Badgley attributed much of his body image issues to his parents’ divorce, which had a profound impact on his self-esteem. “I began overeating in response,” he recounted, illustrating a common coping mechanism for many dealing with life changes. His journey into acting at the young age of 12—making his debut in a small role on “Will & Grace”—only added to the pressure he felt.
“Coming out of depression and isolation, I was thrust into a world where the more conventionally beautiful I seemed, the more successful I might be,” Badgley noted, highlighting the harsh realities of an industry that often equates beauty with value. His words resonate in an age where superficiality can dictate success.
Fast forward to today, Badgley is a loving husband and father of two, with exciting news on the horizon. His wife, Domino Kirke, recently announced on Instagram that they are expecting twins!
Moreover, Badgley has embraced a holistic approach to dealing with the constant scrutiny of Hollywood. “I pray and meditate daily,” he revealed, indicating a path toward spiritual resilience that has bolstered his mental health amidst industry pressures.
He shared, “That allowed me to persevere through disillusionment, grappling with many things, and return with some form of inner transformation.” This journey toward self-acceptance and growth has undeniably shaped the person and actor we see today.
The fifth and final season of “You” premiered on Netflix recently, marking the last chapter of Badgley’s portrayal of the enigmatic and often chilling Joe Goldberg. While remaining tight-lipped about the series’ conclusion, he affirmed that it has “truly reached the best resolution for him.”
If you are struggling with body image issues or an eating disorder, reach out for help. Please consider calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org for support.
