BJ Novak Shares Adorable Nickname Given by Mindy Kaling’s Daughter
B.J. Novak shares exclusive insights about his role as godfather to Mindy Kaling’s three children.
During his guest appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen on Monday, April 20, Novak, 46, was asked about the “best gift” he has given his godchildren.
“Kit calls me Fofo, which comes from the [education app] Duolingo for kids character — the bear, Fofo,” the Office star explained. “So, I gifted her a Fofo stuffed animal for her collection, and it was a hit.”
Novak is the godfather to Kaling’s three children: daughters Katherine “Kit,” 8, and Anne, 2, along with son Spencer, 5.
WWHL host Andy Cohen commended Novak for being “present” in his role with the kids.
“He engages with them on their level. He really talks to them,” Cohen, 57, noted.
Kaling, 46, has never disclosed the identity of her children’s father, leading to speculation about Novak. However, she addressed the rumors in a 2022 interview with Marie Claire, clarifying that she and Novak are just close friends.
“He’s the godparent to both my kids — they share a wonderful relationship — and so far, [the speculation hasn’t] affected my happiness or my kids or B.J. at all,” she stated. “It doesn’t bother me. If that’s what people find thrilling, that’s fine with me.”
Kaling — who has openly embraced single motherhood — previously referred to Novak as an “integral part” of her family during her Hollywood Walk of Fame star acceptance speech in February 2025. Novak also praised Kaling at the ceremony, calling her an “incredible mother of three.”
“Mindy navigates fame with an intuitive understanding; she is not only a brilliant and wildly successful showrunner, but also a remarkable mother of three, a caring daughter, and a mentor to many,” the Vengeance actor stated.
Novak continued, “You’d definitely be recognized on the walk of talent if there was such a thing. You’d be honored on the walk of friendship. You’d certainly be honored on the walk of compassionate parenthood, but let’s face it—those would be some terrible field trips, so here you are today; rightfully celebrated on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”
Kaling first revealed her pregnancy in 2017, giving birth to Kit later that same year. She then welcomed Spencer in September 2020 and Anne in February 2024.
In February 2024, Kaling shared how motherhood has transformed her life.
“Being a mom is incredibly rewarding, spending time with these two children who resemble me,” she told WSJ Magazine at the time. “I love them, and they always make me laugh. As a single mom and the primary breadwinner, there’s a lot of pressure on me to provide.”
The Never Have I Ever creator added, “There’s a lot of anxiety that comes with that; I need to earn money for them. Having kids adds depth to my life — I want to be a good role model and create content that makes them proud and doesn’t embarrass them, which is a welcome challenge.”
