Mindy Kaling recently revealed that Reese Witherspoon attempted to set her up on a date, but the actress and writer is currently not interested in romance. During an interview with *Bustle*, published on October 21, 2023, Kaling shared her thoughts on the unsolicited match-making effort from her friend, indicating that her focus lies elsewhere.
Kaling, 46, explained, “I don’t go on the apps. One time, very recently, Reese Witherspoon wanted to set me up with somebody and I didn’t even look to see who it was.” While she appreciated Witherspoon’s thoughtfulness, Kaling felt that it was simply “not the time” for her to pursue a relationship. Her laughter during the conversation was directed more toward the idea of preparing for a date than the proposal itself.
“I have three kids under the age of 7,” she noted, emphasizing the challenges of balancing motherhood and dating. Kaling frequently travels for work, which further complicates the notion of leaving her children. “I’m very happy. I work with so many men, and I love romance, but it’s interesting how all those things can be true and you can decide that you’re like, ‘I’m fine,’” she added.
Kaling Reflects on Love and Relationships
In her discussion, Kaling acknowledged the irony of her situation. As a writer who crafts stories for women, she recognizes the importance of seeking a partner with a “good heart” rather than someone who is merely “funny and mean.” “I’ve literally written this story for young women and I haven’t learned that lesson myself,” she remarked.
Kaling is a mother to three children: Katherine, 7, Spencer, 5, and Anne, 20 months. She has chosen to keep the identity of their father private, although speculation suggests it may be her longtime friend and ex, B.J. Novak. When asked about the rumors, Kaling stated, “It doesn’t bother me,” adding that Novak is the godparent to both of her children and that they share a strong relationship.
She emphasized that the speculation surrounding her personal life does not affect her happiness or that of her children. “It hasn’t affected my kids or B.J. If that’s what is going to be titillating to people, I’ll take it,” she stated.
Kaling also commented on her choice to keep details of her fertility journey private until her children are “old enough to talk about it.” As the sole parent, she aims to be cautious and minimize potential future grievances from her children.
A Unique Relationship with B.J. Novak
Kaling and Novak dated for three years before ending their romantic relationship in 2007. Over the years, their bond has evolved into one that Kaling describes as more familial than platonic. “He’s great with kids,” she mentioned in a previous interview with *Good Morning America* in 2020. “So it’s been really nice to have his energy in the house.”
Despite the unconventional nature of their relationship, Kaling is open about its uniqueness. “I will freely admit: My relationship with B.J. Novak is weird as hell,” she remarked in a past interview. “He is not my boyfriend, but he is not my best friend. I guess you could describe our relationship as a ‘romantically charged camaraderie with loud arguments,’ but I don’t think Facebook would accept this as a new status.”
As Kaling navigates her busy life as a mother and a successful professional, her focus remains on her children and her work, rather than on dating. The candidness with which she discusses her experiences offers insights into her personal life while resonating with many who find themselves in similar situations.
