B.J. Novak might be known for playing the complicated Ryan Howard on The Office, but his real-life romance is heating up and it’s a lot more charming.
As Novak steps into this new chapter, fans can’t help but wonder about his relationship past, especially when it comes to longtime friend and The Office co-star Mindy Kaling.
Who is B.J. Novak dating?
The actor, writer, and comedian, 45, is reportedly dating TikTok star Delaney Rowe, 28, sources confirmed to People in April 2025. Romance rumours first started swirling back in late 2024 when the two were spotted cozying up at New York City’s Bowery Hotel. Fans continued to speculate as more sightings popped up, including at The Official How Long Gone After Party at The Standard in November.
Though reps for Novak and Rowe have stayed tight-lipped, fans on TikTok and X have pieced together the clues, and it seems clear that these two are an item.
Who is Delaney Rowe?
So, who is the woman stealing B.J. Novak’s heart? Delaney Rowe is a rising social media star known for her viral comedy sketches, especially her now-iconic indie movie parody filmed dramatically in the rain. Hailing from Idaho, she’s racked up more than 3 million TikTok followers and 1 million fans on Instagram, writing, performing, and editing her content herself.
Did B.J. Novak and Mindy Kaling Ever Date?
Yes, B.J. Novak and Mindy Kaling have a long, complicated history. The pair met in 2004 while working as writers and actors on The Office, and their on-and-off relationship quickly mirrored the chaotic romance between their characters, Ryan and Kelly.
They briefly dated around 2007 but eventually broke up. However, they’ve remained incredibly close friends ever since. Over the years, they’ve openly discussed their “complicated” bond. In a 2014 interview with People, Novak described her as , “A really complicated person and a really complicated friendship, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.”
In fact, Novak is godfather to one of Mindy Kaling’s children, solidifying their bond as more family than exes.
Despite endless fan speculation over whether the two would ever rekindle their romance, they have both maintained that they are simply best friends now.
Why Did B.J. Novak and Mindy Kaling Break Up?
According to B.J. Novak himself, the end of their romantic relationship was a mix of young love and professional chaos.
While speaking at the 2023 Producers Guild Awards, Novak reflected on their past, saying, “We were in love with each other, and we were reckless idiots.” Their passionate dynamic often slowed down production in the writers’ room, causing dramatic arguments — even over AOL Instant Messenger.
Ultimately, Novak described their relationship as a “tumultuous, romantic, toxic, boundary-less mess.” But through it all, their creative connection and friendship endured, leading to years of collaboration and unwavering loyalty.
Mindy Kaling has also spoken warmly about Novak, calling him her “closest friend” and “favourite writer” when she received her Hollywood Walk of Fame star in early 2025.
Who else has B.J. Novak dated?
While B.J. Novak keeps his personal life relatively private, a few other relationships have made headlines.
He was reportedly linked to Molly Hurwitz, a literary manager who later became engaged to the late Friends actor Matthew Perry. However, details about Novak and Hurwitz’s relationship — including when they dated — remain sparse.
Beyond that, most of Novak’s public dating history has been dominated by his relationship and ongoing friendship with Mindy Kaling, making his new romance with Delaney Rowe all the more exciting for fans who have watched his love life unfold over the years.
Is B.J. Novak Married?
No, B.J. Novak is not currently married.
While he’s hinted at wanting a family someday, Novak seems happy building his personal and professional life on his own terms — and now, possibly with Delaney Rowe by his side.
After years of friendship headlines and romantic rumours, it looks like B.J. Novak has found something new with Delaney Rowe and we’ll definitely be keeping an eye on this adorable new relationship.
