Popular Hollywood actor Penn Badgley, who is most famous for his performances in popular shows You and Gossip Girl, has recently spoken about his spiritual path and the practices that assist him in remaining grounded in the midst of life and acting pressures.
In a USA Today interview, Badgley spoke of the books and spiritual practices that have served to help him manage stress and remain humble when acting out intense roles. Among the surprises, he revealed that he has a copy of the Quran on his bedside table and periodically reads from it.
“I do have the Quran actually on my nightstand, and I will occasionally reflect on the verses in it,” Badgley shared, providing an unusual insight into his own spiritual considerations.
He also said that he reads classical works, such as Dracula, which he termed “a good book.”
Badgley’s spiritual practice doesn’t end in the evenings. He revealed that his morning routine usually begins with a specific Baháʼí prayer practice.
“My morning routine is typically chaotic due to the children and work, but there’s one thing that I always prioritize,” he stated.
This practice features the “Long Obligatory Prayer,” a core prayer in the Baháʼí faith. “The prayer is approximately 15 minutes, and I have it memorized. I’ve been saying it for years because I adore it. If I hurry, I can get through it in seven minutes, and then I meditate for two minutes—making it a nine-minute spiritual practice,” he said.
Badgley also added that when possible, he likes to recite the prayer slowly and deliberately in order to begin the day with peace and intention.
“If I can steal away 15 to 20 minutes to do all this, it’s a luxury,” he said. “It makes me think about the deeper truths of life and reminds me of what it is to live a good life.”
Penn Badgley’s disclosures are occurring at a time when spiritual quest and mental wellness are becoming more internationally prominent. His observations imply that even after achieving fame and success, the search within oneself for meaning remains essential—and most often leads to sacred writings and meditative routines.
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