In a recent episode of her Hulu comedy series, *Not Suitable for Work*, Mindy Kaling paid an amusing homage to her long-time friend B.J. Novak, which she cheekily referred to as “Easter eggs” inspired by Taylor Swift. During the sixth episode, released on June 16, viewers were treated to a scene in which a character mentions Novak as a co-owner of a bar in New York City, cleverly linking the show’s narrative to real-life ties.
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Kaling explained her choice to incorporate these nods to Novak, stating, **“This is really me just being inspired by Taylor Swift and her Easter eggs.”** In the episode, characters Abby and Austin discuss their plans at The Mulberry, a bar co-owned by Novak. The reference to Novak extends beyond mere mention, as Kaling revealed, **“The bar… is actually a bar that B.J. owns.”**
The creative decision to include real locations adds authenticity to the show. Kaling elaborated, **”We needed a location that was like a cool downtown bar, and we set the show in New York so that we could use all these real locations.”** Her fondness for the venue is evident, as she remarked on its appeal, stating that it is a great spot to grab drinks. With Novak’s involvement, the venue received the spotlight, as Kaling noted, **“He called the other owners and the manager and made it happen.”**
Kaling and Novak’s enduring friendship has spanned nearly two decades, beginning with their acquaintance on the set of *The Office* in 2004. Their relationship has had its complexities; they dated intermittently until 2007, which Novak himself described as a “tumultuous, romantic, toxic, boundary-less mess.” Reflecting on their past, he noted, **“We were in love with each other, and we were reckless idiots.”** Their professional lives often overlapped, leading to heated discussions that could halt progress in the writers’ room.
Despite their romantic history, Kaling and Novak have managed to maintain a close relationship. Kaling shared insights on their bond, saying, **“He really is in our family, and I love talking about him because my kids adore him.”** Acknowledging how their dynamic can raise eyebrows, she candidly noted the complexities of their friendship and how it might appear to outsiders.
Novak plays a significant role in Kaling’s family, serving as the godfather to her three children: Kit, Spencer, and Anne. However, romance is firmly off the table for the two. Kaling previously discussed their platonic bond on *The Drew Barrymore Show*, suggesting that such long-standing friendships can come with their unique understandings. She shared, **“You have exes that you wouldn’t necessarily marry now.”**
The intricate themes of friendship and romance are at the heart of Kaling’s new show, *Not Suitable for Work*. She describes it as her third exploration of her personal journey, highlighting the significance of her past experiences. **“Never Have I Ever is about my teenage years. The Sex Lives of College Girls was [about] my college [experience], and then this is about my 20s,”** she explained.
The series itself follows a group of five 20-somethings navigating the challenges of their post-graduate lives in New York City’s Murray Hill neighbourhood. Each character seeks success both romantically and professionally as they make their way through the complexities of early adulthood.
New episodes of *Not Suitable for Work* are set to be released every Tuesday on Hulu, inviting fans to witness the hilarity and heartwarming moments that Kaling and her team have crafted, while also showcasing her enduring friendship with Novak in clever and entertaining ways.