Penn Badgley Opens Up About Life as a Stepfather to Cassius

Penn Badgley recently shared insights into his relationship with his 16-year-old stepson, Cassius, during an interview on the “Not Skinny But Not Fat” podcast hosted by Amanda Hirsch. The episode is set to be released on **November 11**. Badgley, 39, acknowledged the inherent awkwardness that often accompanies the role of a stepparent, stating, “Any real parent figure is always going to be cringe to some degree, definitely.” He humorously added, “I am not the most uncool stepparent you can have,” hinting at his desire to connect with Cassius in a relatable way.

Reflecting on their family dynamics, Badgley recalled watching the first episode of his show “Gossip Girl” with Cassius. “He was young enough that it wasn’t inappropriate but that he was uninterested,” he explained. As Cassius matures, Badgley noted, “I still think 16 [or] 17 is young to be watching ‘You.’” He expressed concerns about the themes presented in the show, suggesting that understanding them requires an older perspective, ideally someone in their 20s.

Interestingly, Badgley mentioned that Cassius has not seen much of his work but is familiar with his presence on social media. “But he sees my TikToks,” Badgley quipped, showcasing a modern twist to their relationship.

Family Background and Changes

Badgley and his wife, **Domino Kirke**, 41, began their relationship in **2014**, when Cassius was just five years old, having been born during Kirke’s previous relationship with musician **Morgan O’Kane**. The couple tied the knot in **2017** and welcomed their first child together in **August 2020**. While it was initially reported that they named their son James, Badgley later clarified that the name was incorrect. “We’d get it removed [from Wikipedia], and it would just go back,” he explained during an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in **May**. He expressed frustration over the persistent misinformation, stating that the actual name would remain undisclosed for the time being but assured, “It’s a good name, though!”

In **February 2023**, Badgley announced that he and Kirke were expecting twins. He shared his excitement about the upcoming addition to their family during a talk show appearance. “Every time I see the sonogram it just… it feels so good,” he said, emphasizing how different his children’s upbringing will be compared to his own experience as an only child. Badgley described a sonogram where the twins appeared “almost like facing each other,” expressing awe at the concept of sibling companionship.

The couple’s four-year-old son is eager to embrace his new role as an older brother. Badgley noted, “He’s stoked because he really wants to be a big brother,” while Cassius, who is preparing to leave for college in the near future, expresses excitement for his parents but acknowledges the impending transition. “I’m going to leave in two years!” he remarked.

As of now, details about the twins, who were born in **September**, remain private, with their names yet to be revealed. The full episode of “Not Skinny But Not Fat” featuring Badgley will be available on all podcast platforms and on YouTube on **November 11**.