B.J. Novak Sparks Romance Rumors with TikTok Star Delaney Rowe

Actor and writer B.J. Novak appears to be entering a new chapter in his personal life. The 45-year-old Office alum is reportedly dating 29-year-old TikTok content creator Delaney Rowe, according to sources who spoke with People.

Novak, who rose to fame portraying Ryan Howard on NBC’s The Office, was also deeply involved behind the scenes of the hit series, serving as a writer, executive producer, and occasional director. Over the years, he’s remained a consistent figure in Hollywood—not just for his work, but for his much-discussed personal connections, especially his long-standing, on-again-off-again relationship with co-star Mindy Kaling.

Now, it seems Novak may be quietly forging a new relationship with Rowe, a comedian and actress who has amassed over three million followers on TikTok thanks to her sharply observed and often self-deprecating sketches.

A Subtle Start to the Relationship

Whispers of a connection between Novak and Rowe began to emerge in late 2023. The two were spotted together on more than one occasion, including an appearance at the Bowery Hotel in New York City that first stirred public speculation. Earlier that month, they were photographed at The Official How Long Gone After Party at The Standard Hotel on November 23, adding further fuel to the rumors.

While neither Novak nor Rowe has commented publicly on the nature of their relationship, their growing number of appearances together has certainly caught the attention of fans and media alike. Representatives for both have declined to issue any formal statements at this time.

Who Is Delaney Rowe?

Delaney Rowe may not be a household name just yet, but she’s quickly making a name for herself in digital comedy. Her videos often lampoon recognizable film and television tropes, particularly those involving melodramatic or overly quirky female characters. She’s best known for recurring sketches like the “emotionally unstable indie film lead” and the “tragically hot single mom in every teen movie.”

Her blend of exaggerated vulnerability and clever satire has resonated with a large online audience, positioning her as one of TikTok’s standout comedic voices. In 2023, Rowe signed with United Talent Agency, signaling a leap into mainstream entertainment. She has since earned film credits in The List (2023) and The Everything Pot (2024), showcasing her range beyond short-form content.

Novak’s Enduring Bond with Mindy Kaling

Any new relationship in Novak’s life inevitably draws comparisons to his famously complex connection with Mindy Kaling. The two actors met as young writers on The Office and developed a romantic relationship that blurred the lines between fiction and reality. Though their romantic involvement ended years ago, their deep friendship has continued—and often invites public curiosity.

In February, Novak spoke at Kaling’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, honoring her not only for her creative achievements but for her layered personality and unique perspective. “In addition to being a brilliant and wildly successful showrunner,” Novak said, “Mindy is also, in her spare time, very superficial,” he joked lovingly.

At the 2022 Emmy Awards, the duo shared the stage again to co-present a writing award. In true Novak-Kaling fashion, they leaned into public fascination with their relationship, referring to it as “insanely complicated” while still clearly enjoying the shared moment.

The nature of their connection has sparked endless speculation over the years—particularly regarding the paternity of Kaling’s three children. Kaling has kept details about her children’s father private, leading some fans to wonder if Novak could be more than just a close friend and godparent.

In a 2022 Marie Claire interview, Kaling responded to the ongoing rumors with calm confidence: “It doesn’t bother me. [B.J.] is the godparent to both my kids — and they have such a great relationship. So far, [the speculation] hasn’t affected my happiness, my kids, or B.J.”

Novak, for his part, acknowledged the murkiness of their past in a 2012 Vulture interview, saying: “We were never really dating, we were never really not dating. We didn’t know. No one knew. All you’d know for sure is that you’d always find one of us next to the other, even if we weren’t getting along.”

A New Chapter?

While the nature of Novak’s current relationship with Rowe remains largely under wraps, the pairing has caught public interest due to the generational and professional contrast between the two. Novak, a well-established figure in television and publishing, is known for his sharp wit and introspective writing style. Rowe, meanwhile, is emerging as a bold comedic voice in digital media, known for her highly stylized, self-aware performances that play off millennial and Gen Z cultural archetypes.

Their reported romance is still in early stages as far as the public knows, but if history is any indication, Novak tends to keep his private life just that—private.

Whether it’s a quiet companionship or something more, the relationship between Novak and Rowe adds a new layer to the actor’s personal life. For now, fans will be watching closely, waiting to see if the couple makes a more public debut or continues to enjoy their low-profile connection behind the scenes.