Topline
Kal Penn, an actor most well-known for his roles in Harold & Kumar films, was also a part of the Obama administration. He came out publicly for the first time on Sunday to promote his new memoir and announce his engagement with his partner of 11 year.
Kal Penn, Build Studio in New York, March 11, 2020. (Photo by Jim Spellman/Getty Images). Getty Images
The Key Facts
Penn, 44, talked about his open-hearted love for acting, his family's history of public service, and the fact that his grandparents marched with Gandhi to support Indian independence. People magazine confirmed Penn's engagement, saying that he was thrilled to share the news about his relationship with Josh (whose last name has not yet been revealed). He is a native of New Jersey and has been acting for many years. His roles include the Harold & Kumar films, and the show Designated Survivor. But he also made headlines after he took a two year sabbatical to work at the Obama White Houses Office of Public Engagement as a liaison with young Americans, and members of the Asian American, and Pacific Islander communities.
Important Quote
Penn joked that if you're the son of Indian immigrants and say that you want to become an actor, the chaos it creates in your home and community will outweigh any other thing. People heard him say that he discovered his sexuality late in life than many others. This stuff doesn't happen in a set time frame. Different people figure out their lives at different times, so I'm glad I did.
What to Watch
Gallery Books, a division under Simon & Schuster, will publish You Cant Be Serious on Tuesday. Hot Mess Holiday premieres in December and Penn stars alongside comedians Titussburgess, Lilly Singh.
Continue reading
Kal Penn, a surprising star (CBS News).
Kal Penn Announces He is Engaged to Fianc Josh, and Details Their First Date in a New Book (People).
Kal Penn Announces He is Engaged To Josh, His Long-Term Partner (Hollywood Reporter).
Comedy Central (Variety), Rachel Dratch, Ana Gasteyer and Kal Penns Holiday Films to Open in December
Kal Penn isn't making a political point with his Immigration Sitcom (New York Times).
Kal Penn: White Castle to White House (Washington Post).
