Penn Badgley’s Most Candid Quotes About Fatherhood Through the Years: ‘A Strange Blessing’

A Blessed Arrival Amid the Pandemic

Penn Badgley and his wife, Domino Kirke, welcomed their first child together during the coronavirus pandemic, a time that, despite its challenges, brought them immense joy and gratitude. The couple, who married in 2017, announced their pregnancy in February 2020 after experiencing previous miscarriages. Their son, James, was born in September of that year, bringing light and hope during a difficult time. Badgley, known for his role in the Netflix series You, reflected on the experience during an October 2021 appearance on SiriusXM’s The Jess Cagle Show. He shared that the pandemic allowed them to cherish quiet moments with their newborn, who was content in the comfort of their company. “The great bounty that we got out of it was our son,” Badgley said, expressing their gratitude for the unique bonding experience they had with their baby.

Badgley also mentioned their 12-year-old stepson, Cassius, from Kirke’s previous relationship, who had a different experience during the pandemic due to his social nature. While Cassius navigated the challenges of being a preteen in isolation, James, their youngest, was blissfully unaware of the world outside their little family bubble. The contrast between the two experiences highlighted the beauty of parenthood for Badgley, who marveled at the simplicity of their baby’s contentment. “He’s only been with us, and he loves it,” Badgley said, reflecting on the peaceful early days of their son’s life.

The Path to Parenthood: Love, Loss, and Renewal

Penn Badgley and Domino Kirke’s journey to parenthood was not without its challenges. Before welcoming their son James, the couple endured the pain of miscarriages, a struggle that many families face but few openly discuss. Their decision to share their story offered hope and solidarity to others who have experienced similar losses. Kirke’s pregnancy with James was met with joy and caution, as they awaited the arrival of their rainbow baby—a term used to describe a child born after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. The couple’s announcement in February 2020 was a beacon of hope, not just for themselves, but for many who have walked a similar path.

When James was born in September 2020, he brought immense joy to their family. Badgley, who had already stepped into a parenting role as a stepfather to Cassius, found himself embracing the responsibilities and wonders of fatherhood. The pandemic, though isolating, provided them with a rare opportunity to slow down and savor every moment of their new reality. In many ways, the quiet intimacy of their lockdown experience became a gift, allowing them to focus on their growing family without the distractions of the outside world.

Penn Badgley: Embracing Fatherhood and Stepfatherhood

Penn Badgley’s transition into fatherhood was seamless, thanks in part to his prior experience as a stepfather to Cassius. Kirke, a singer and songwriter known for her introspective music, had praised Badgley’s ability to connect with her eldest son. In an October 2019 interview with Us Weekly, she shared, “He’s a really good stepdad. He doesn’t have to be ‘dad’ so he can have more fun with him. It’s really nice.” Badgley’s playful and supportive approach to parenting Cassius prepared him for the responsibilities of fatherhood when James arrived.

Badgley’s ability to adapt to his new role as a father was evident in the way he balanced the needs of both his stepson and his newborn. While Cassius navigated the challenges of being a preteen during the pandemic, James brought a new kind of joy into their lives. Badgley’s reflections on fatherhood highlight the unique bond he has with both of his children, proving that love and connection can transcend biology. His journey as a stepfather and biological father paints a picture of a man who values family above all else.

Domino Kirke: Navigating Motherhood and Family Dynamics

Domino Kirke, a talented musician and doula, has been open about her experiences as a mother and partner. Her journey into motherhood with Penn Badgley was marked by both joy and heartache, as the couple navigated miscarriages and the challenges of the pandemic. Kirke’s strength and resilience shone through as she embraced her role as a mother to two sons—Cassius and James—while also preparing for the arrival of twins in 2025, as she announced in February of that year.

Kirke’s perspective on parenthood is deeply personal and intuitive, reflecting her background as a doula and her connection to the emotional and physical aspects of motherhood. Her ability to navigate the complexities of raising two very different children—Cassius, with his social and preteen needs, and James, with his innocent and contented nature—speaks to her陳ASCENDancy and devotion as a mother. Kirke’s journey is a testament to the strength and adaptability of mothers everywhere, who juggle love, loss, and life’s unpredictable twists with grace and courage.

Looking Ahead: New Additions and Family Growth

In February 2025, Domino Kirke shared exciting news with her fans—she and Penn Badgley were expecting twins. The announcement marked a new chapter in their family’s journey, bringing both joy and anticipation. The arrival of twins will undoubtedly bring new challenges and blessings, as the couple prepares to welcome two more little ones into their loving home.

Badgley, who has already shown his dedication to fatherhood and stepfatherhood, will no doubt embrace this new phase with the same love and enthusiasm. The couple’s ability to grow and evolve as parents, while nurturing their relationships with each other and their children, is a beautiful testament to the power of family and love. As they prepare for the arrival of their twins, the Badgley-Kirke family continues to inspire those around them with their strength, resilience, and commitment to one another.

Conclusion: A Beautiful Blend of Love and Family

Penn Badgley and Domino Kirke’s story is one of love, loss, and renewal—a reminder that life’s greatest challenges often lead to its most profound joys. From the quiet moments of lockdown with their newborn son to the excitement of welcoming twins, their journey as parents is a testament to the beauty of family and the strength of their bond.

Through it all, Badgley and Kirke have shown that parenthood is not just about biology or circumstance but about the love and care we offer to those around us. Whether as biological parents, stepparents, or partners, their commitment to their family shines brightly, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of love and parenthood. As they continue to grow and evolve as a family, their story serves as a reminder of the beauty and resilience of life, love, and family.