Penn Badgley’s Wife Domino Kirke-Badgley Denies Asking Him to Stop Doing Sex Scenes

In a recent social media post, Domino Kirke-Badgley spoke candidly about her husband, actor Penn Badgley’s choice to limit intimate scenes in his projects, revealing the backlash he has encountered since publicising this decision. Kirke-Badgley, a professional birth doula, addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding her husband’s choices and the implications for their relationship.

In February 2023, Penn Badgley, known for his role in Netflix’s *You*, announced on his podcast *Podcrushed* his desire to reduce the number of sex scenes he participates in. He explained that his decision was rooted in a desire to reassess the trajectory of his career. “Do I want to put myself back on a career path where I’m always the romantic lead?” he questioned, revealing the personal reflections that led to his choice. At the heart of his decision lies a commitment to fidelity in his marriage to Kirke-Badgley, which he has emphasised as a crucial value.

Despite his rationale, Badgley’s comments were met with some controversy. Shortly after making his remarks, he sought to clarify his intentions in an interview with *GQ*, asserting that his statements were exaggerated and revealing his concerns regarding the culture within Hollywood that often permits exploitation. This context provides insight into the industry’s expectations and pressures that actors, particularly men, face regarding intimate scenes.

Domino Kirke-Badgley took to Instagram on 28 September to express her frustration with the ongoing speculation surrounding her husband’s decision. In her post, she noted that it has been three years since Badgley made his choice, yet she continues to receive inquiries from fans questioning her involvement in that decision.

Speaking directly to the camera with a headline from March 2023 as a backdrop, Kirke-Badgley clarified that her husband’s decision not to engage in intimate scenes was entirely his own. “He didn’t want to have sex. He didn’t want to,” she stated, highlighting the significance of this choice in an industry that often promotes such content.

Furthermore, she remarked on the expectations placed on her husband’s career, acknowledging that many fans have come to anticipate certain roles and performances from him. Reflecting on the impact of his decision on their relationship, Kirke-Badgley stated that she felt a sense of pride and happiness over his choice, recognising the major implications it holds for their marital dynamics and overall relationship “hygiene.”

In a note aimed at the fans who had questioned her husband’s motives, she expressed, “I want to say to those of you who still DM me about my husband deciding to do this for himself and his mental health, like get over it.” This pointed response encapsulates her desire for privacy and acceptance of their choices within their marriage.

Kirke-Badgley also mentioned that her husband’s decision was significantly motivated by his mental health. After spending years in the entertainment industry since childhood, it was necessary for him to establish boundaries that protect his wellbeing. “Believe me, it was time,” she noted, emphasising the toll that a demanding career can take, especially for those who start young.

At the conclusion of her message, she highlighted that despite his decision to limit intimate scenes, Badgley has not lost popularity; in fact, he continues to be in demand within the industry. “And guess what, he hasn’t lost fans and he’s still getting hired!” she stated, which serves to dismantle any notion that an actor must conform to the industry’s traditional expectations, particularly concerning intimate portrayals.

As the couple navigates public scrutiny and the nature of their relationship, Domino Kirke-Badgley’s candid reflections offer insights into the challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding personal choices that conflict with prevalent norms. Their story underscores the importance of mental health and fidelity within the often tumultuous waters of Hollywood.