In a revelation that has taken both fans and critics by surprise, American actor Penn Badgley, best known for his unnerving portrayal of Joe Goldberg in the psychological thriller series YOU, has disclosed a deeply personal habit—reading passages from the Holy Quran every night as a means of calming his mind and reconnecting with his spiritual self.
The 37-year-old, who has gained international fame for his chilling performance as a manipulative and obsessive character, shared this intimate detail during an interview with USA TODAY. According to Badgley, immersing himself in Quranic verses before bed has become a powerful form of meditation that helps him detach from the disturbing roles he plays onscreen and find inner peace.
“I’ll meditate on a Quranic passage at night—it grounds me,” he explained, describing a routine that starkly contrasts with the sinister personalities he brings to life on screen. The practice, he said, offers him a much-needed mental reset, especially after intense days on set portraying a character whose actions and thoughts are far removed from peace or morality.
Though not a Muslim, Badgley’s engagement with the Quran aligns with his identity as a member of the Baháʼí Faith, a religion that emphasizes the unity of all spiritual traditions and encourages seeking wisdom from diverse religious texts. For Badgley, reading the Quran isn’t about conversion but rather about connecting to the broader, universal truths that transcend religious boundaries. “It reminds me of life’s bigger picture,” he said, pointing to how the verses offer clarity and grounding amidst the fast-paced and often chaotic world of Hollywood.
Beyond his career, Badgley is also a husband and father, describing himself as “comically disorganized” during the day. Yet, amid that admitted disorder, he maintains his nightly ritual with discipline, treating it as a sacred time to reflect and center himself. His honesty has sparked widespread curiosity, especially among fans who are more accustomed to seeing him in dark, morally complex roles rather than in moments of quiet spiritual contemplation.
This revelation adds a new layer to the public perception of the actor, showing a thoughtful and introspective side that is often overshadowed by his intense on-screen performances. It also highlights the growing trend among global celebrities who look beyond their cultural or religious upbringing to draw inspiration and peace from diverse sources of spiritual wisdom.
Badgley’s engagement with the Quran serves as a quiet but powerful testament to the universal appeal of sacred texts and their ability to offer solace—even in the most unlikely corners of the entertainment industry. His nightly habit is a reminder that amid the pressures of fame and the burdens of playing dark roles, moments of spiritual grounding remain not only relevant but essential.