Penn Badgley has become a household name in Hollywood, known for his charming yet complex roles that keep audiences hooked. From his breakout as Dan Humphrey in Gossip Girl to his chilling performance as Joe Goldberg in Netflix’s You, Penn has proven himself to be one of the most versatile actors of his generation. Beyond acting, he is also a talented musician and a family man, making him a multifaceted star who continues to captivate fans worldwide. In this biography, we’ll take a closer look at Penn Badgley’s career, movies, net worth, family, and personal life.
Penn Badgley Biography
Penn Badgley is an American actor, musician, and producer, best known for his role as Dan Humphrey in the hit series Gossip Girl and later as Joe Goldberg in Netflix’s psychological thriller You. Born on November 1, 1986, in Baltimore, Maryland, Penn Dayton Badgley showed an early interest in performing arts, which eventually shaped his career in both television and music. Over the years, he has evolved into one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents, balancing a successful acting career with his passion for music.
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Career
The foundation of Penn Badgley’s career was laid when he began acting in the late 1990s, voicing characters for children’s video games and TV shows. His first significant television appearance came in series such as The Young and the Restless and Do Over.
However, his big breakthrough arrived in 2007 when he was cast as Dan Humphrey in the teen drama Gossip Girl. The show ran until 2012 and catapulted him to international fame. Later, Badgley reinvented himself with his dark and chilling portrayal of Joe Goldberg in Netflix’s You, which began in 2018. The role earned him critical acclaim and expanded his fan base worldwide.
Outside acting, Badgley also pursued music, fronting the indie band MOTHXR, further showcasing his artistic range.
Penn Badgley Movies
While he is more famous for his television work, Penn Badgley’s movies also highlight his diverse talent. Some of his notable film appearances include:
- John Tucker Must Die (2006)
- Drive-Thru (2007)
- The Stepfather (2009)
- Easy A (2010), opposite Emma Stone
- Greetings from Tim Buckley (2012), where he played the late musician Jeff Buckley
These roles cemented his reputation as an actor who can handle both lighthearted comedies and serious dramas.
Penn Badgley Net Worth
Thanks to his long-running television roles, film projects, and music career, Penn Badgley’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million as of 2025. Much of this comes from his starring roles in Gossip Girl and You, alongside his ventures in music and endorsements.
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Family
Penn Badgley’s family background is diverse, with his father, Duff Badgley, working as a newspaper reporter and carpenter, and his mother, Lynne Murphy, supporting his artistic ambitions from a young age. He spent much of his childhood between Maryland, Virginia, and Washington before pursuing acting full-time in Los Angeles.
In his personal life, Penn has built a family with his wife, Domino Kirke, with whom he shares a son.
Penn Badgley and Blake Lively
During his Gossip Girl years, Penn Badgley and Blake Lively became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about couples. They dated from 2007 to 2010, with their on-screen chemistry as Dan and Serena matching their real-life romance. Despite their split, the two remained professional and continued to work together on the show.
Penn Badgley and Zoe Kravitz
Following his breakup with Lively, Penn Badgley and Zoë Kravitz were romantically linked around 2011. Their relationship was relatively private and short-lived, but it attracted media attention given both stars’ rising profiles at the time.
Penn Badgley and Domino Kirke
In 2017, Penn married musician and doula Domino Kirke in a private ceremony. The couple welcomed their first child together in 2020, and Penn has since embraced family life with a deep sense of commitment. Penn Badgley and Domino Kirke’s marriage reflects his more grounded and spiritual lifestyle, as he is also known for being vocal about mindfulness and personal growth.
Penn Badgley Age
Born on November 1, 1986, Penn Badgley’s age is 38 years old as of 2025. With over two decades in the entertainment industry, he continues to remain relevant and admired for his talent and personal values.
Penn Badgley Instagram
For fans who want to keep up with his life and projects, Penn Badgley’s Instagram (@pennbadgley) offers glimpses into his career, behind-the-scenes moments from You, and personal reflections. Unlike many celebrities, his social media presence tends to focus more on thoughtful posts rather than pure entertainment.
Conclusion
From teen drama heartthrob to a psychological thriller icon, Penn Badgley has carved out a unique space in Hollywood. His dedication to his craft, versatility across genres, and balanced approach to fame make him stand out in today’s entertainment world. Whether fans remember him as Dan Humphrey, admire him as Joe Goldberg, or enjoy his work with MOTHXR, Penn continues to evolve and inspire. As he enters a new chapter in his life and career, one thing is clear: Penn Badgley remains one of the most compelling stars of his generation.
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