B.J. Novak, best known for his role on The Office, has a special place in the hearts of Mindy Kaling's three children. The actor, who serves as godfather to all three kids, recently shared the heartwarming story behind his unique nickname from Kaling's eldest daughter.
On a recent episode of Watch What Happens: Live with Andy Cohen, Novak revealed that 8-year-old Katherine "Kit" Kaling calls him "FoFo." The nickname originates from a character on Duolingo For Kids, an educational app. Novak's thoughtful gift of a FoFo stuffed animal to Kit cemented the affectionate moniker.
Kaling, who has maintained privacy regarding her children's father, has frequently spoken about Novak's integral role in her family. In a previous interview, she described him as "an important and integral part of my family," highlighting their enduring friendship that began when they dated briefly in 2007.
The close nature of their relationship has sparked speculation over the years, with some wondering if Novak might be the biological father of Kaling's children. Kaling addressed these rumors in a 2022 interview with Marie Claire, stating, "It doesn't bother me. He's the godparent to both my kids—and they have such a great relationship—and so far the rumors haven't affected my happiness at all, it hasn't affected my kids or BJ."
She added, "If that's what is going to be titillating to people, I'll take it." Kaling emphasized that she plans to discuss paternity with her children when they're "old enough to talk to me about it," noting, "I'm the only parent my kids have. I think I err on the side of super cautious so that there's less things that they can potentially be mad at me about down the line."
The pair has also been open about why their relationship remains platonic despite their deep connection. Kaling explained during a 2022 appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, "He is a wonderful friend and he's godparent of both of my kids and he loves children and they're so attached to him. I think anyone who's been friends with someone for 18, 19 years and at one point dated and now doesn't, they maybe understand this."
Novak's bond extends to all three of Kaling's children—Kit, 8; Spencer Tracy Kaling, 5; and Anne Kaling, 2—demonstrating a friendship that has evolved into a meaningful family connection beyond their professional collaboration on The Office and The Mindy Project.