Penn Badgley and Wife Domino Kirke Nearly Split After Suffering Two Devastating Miscarriages
The Emotional Toll of Miscarriage on Penn Badgley and Domino Kirke
Penn Badgley, best known for his role in the hit series “You,” and his wife, singer and actress Domino Kirke, have recently opened up about a deeply personal and painful chapter in their lives. The couple nearly separated after experiencing two devastating miscarriages, a revelation Penn shared candidly in his new book of essays, *Crushmore: Essays on Love, Loss, and Coming-of-Age*. Their story sheds light on the emotional challenges many couples face but seldom discuss openly.
In *Crushmore*, Penn reflects on the profound grief and isolation that followed their losses. “This was our second loss together. A time when it did not feel as though the cycle would break,” he wrote. The couple’s near separation stemmed largely from feeling isolated in their grief, compounded by a societal culture that often avoids conversations about miscarriage and lacks adequate support systems for those affected.
Breaking the Silence: Why Talking About Miscarriage Matters
Penn Badgley has emphasized the importance of openness surrounding miscarriage, a topic that remains taboo for many. During a recent appearance on the *Totally Booked* podcast, he expressed the need for more honest conversations. “That sort of loss is really common, and we should — I don’t know if talking about it alone is what we need — we at least need to start by talking about it more,” he said.
Miscarriage affects countless families worldwide, yet many suffer in silence due to stigma, shame, or lack of understanding. Penn’s candidness helps to normalize these experiences and encourages others to share their stories, fostering a community of support and empathy.
The actor also shared how the haunting memory of seeing their stillborn baby on sonogram images continues to affect him. “Seeing our still baby in that tripped out black-and-white sono imagery is a dreadful memory I can’t shake every time we go for a sonogram now,” he revealed. This raw honesty highlights the lasting impact miscarriage can have on parents’ mental health and emotional well-being.
From Heartbreak to Healing: The Strength of Their Relationship
Despite the immense pain and the strain it placed on their marriage, Penn and Domino ultimately chose to stay together and support one another. Penn credits their decision to resist the “gravity” of separation and instead lean into their love and commitment. The couple, who began dating in 2014 and married in 2017, have since welcomed children, including their son James in 2020 and twin sons in 2025.
Domino Kirke, who also has a son named Cassius from a previous relationship, described the experience of pregnancy and motherhood as both miraculous and overwhelming. When announcing her pregnancy with twins, she called the news “beyond magical,” a sentiment that contrasts with the earlier heartbreak they endured.
Penn humorously noted on the podcast how the abundance of children has helped him cope with the losses. “I feel like I’m drowning in children,” he said, “so it’s harder to get in touch with that feeling of loss because my cup truly runneth over.” Their journey from grief to joy underscores the resilience of their bond and the healing power of family.
Conclusion
The story of Penn Badgley and Domino Kirke’s near separation after two devastating miscarriages is a powerful reminder of the emotional challenges many couples face in silence. Their openness about grief, isolation, and healing encourages a much-needed dialogue about miscarriage and the importance of support. If you or someone you know is struggling with pregnancy loss, remember that you are not alone. Sharing your story and seeking support can be the first steps toward healing. For more inspiring stories and resources on coping with loss, stay connected with our updates and join the conversation today.
