In USA TODAY’s The Essentials, celebrities reveal their secrets to living well, both on and off the screen.
Penn Badgley: From Joe Goldberg to Real Life Inspiration
Penn Badgley is ready to bid adieu to his complex role as Joe Goldberg, drawing the curtain on an era of captivating storytelling in Netflix’s hit series. Transitioning from the dark depths of his on-screen persona, the talented actor is now embracing a journey filled with potential and reflection.
“We’ll see what else I can do,” says the 38-year-old star. He admits that navigating the entertainment world can feel like climbing Everest: “Anyone can get on a show like ‘Gossip Girl,’ but can you make it off and go somewhere else? That’s difficult for anybody.” Badgley shares his insights in a candid interview with USA TODAY, merging snippets from his playlist, family life, and a soulful NYC day into a captivating narrative.
Penn Badgley’s Musical Palette
What tunes fill the airwaves of Badgley’s life? An eclectic mix awaits on his Spotify playlist. His love for D’Angelo stands out: “I went back to his 2000 album ‘Voodoo’ yesterday and thought, ‘No, it’s still the best.’ That’s impressive!”
But that’s not all; his playlist also includes existential vibes from Radiohead, the charismatic Joan as Police Woman, and even London’s Kokoroko and Sault. Just wait till you hear about his wife, Domino Kirke, who’s releasing a new record filled with gorgeous melodies. Toss in Kendrick Lamar, and you have a recipe for musical excellence!
A Day in the Life: Badgley’s Perfect NYC Adventure
What’s Badgley’s vision for an ideal NYC day? “I’d wake up before sunrise, enjoy some tea, and soak in the view from my penthouse,” he muses. After absorbing the morning light, he imagines a stroll through Central Park and a leisurely lunch with family.
“In summer, a quick dip in Rockaway beach is a must! In winter, maybe a cozy evening of ice skating,” he says, offering a glimpse into his seasonal adventures. As nightfall approaches, the family heads home to whip up a simple yet satisfying roast chicken. “And if I can sleep by 9:30 p.m., I consider that a win!”
The Importance of Routine
Like many parents, Badgley’s mornings can be chaotic. “I have a total bankruptcy of a morning routine thanks to kids and work,” he admits. Yet he carves out time for a cherished practice: “I recite a prayer from the Baháʼí Writings that helps center my thoughts.” When he can, he’ll take 15 to 20 minutes for this moment of clarity that sets a positive tone for his day.
Travel Essentials: A Quest for Peace
With a global career, traveling is second nature for Badgley. However, he emphasizes the importance of family. “Where are my children?” he often wonders. When he finds them, he craves a screen-free zone. “A plane is the one place where I ask, ‘Can we just stop?’” He relishes some downtime to reflect, watch a movie, or simply enjoy the ride.
What Lies on His Nightstand?
In the spirit of his character Joe Goldberg, books play an essential role in Badgley’s life, with classics like ‘Dracula’ alongside the Quran prominently displayed. This blend of ancient wisdom and classic literature forms a well-rounded reading list that reflects his interests and character depth.
Fans can also look forward to his upcoming essay collection, “Crushmore: Essays on Love, Loss, and Coming-of-Age” (out October 7, published by Simon & Schuster), promising to dive into topics of heartbreak and self-discovery.
The Fitness Journey: A Balanced Approach
Playing a character like Joe Goldberg means staying fit, and for Badgley, this is no game. He approaches his physical routine with intention, adopting body-weight calisthenics such as pull-ups and pushups. “Just one set to failure every day,” he says, capturing the essence of less is more.
When it comes to meals, he balances his diet for performance: “You want to be fueled, but empty,” he notes, adjusting his intake to suit the demands of filming. “By the end of each season, I usually end up going mostly vegetarian.”
This article has been edited for length and clarity.
