Mindy Kaling’s conspicuous absence from our screens lately might seem puzzling — especially given her scene-stealing charm as Kelly Kapoor on “The Office.” But here’s the kicker: she’s deliberately staying behind the camera, and not for the reasons you’d expect.
The powerhouse producer (who turns 45 this year) recently spilled the beans at a Paley Media Council Series appearance, revealing that good old-fashioned superstition keeps her from stepping in front of the lens. “These shows seem to have gone well and I’m not in them, so maybe I’ll wait,” she admitted with characteristic self-deprecating humor. Even “Never Have I Ever” — a show practically mirroring her own Southern California Indian American upbringing — couldn’t tempt her into a cameo appearance.
Strange? Perhaps. But you can’t argue with results.
Her latest creation, “Running Point” (dropping on streaming platforms in early 2025), showcases just how far she’s come as a showrunner. Kate Hudson, the show’s lead, couldn’t contain her enthusiasm about working with Kaling. “She’s just not only so brilliant, but so trusting,” Hudson gushed, noting that Kaling was firing off notes mere hours after welcoming her third child. Talk about dedication.
Speaking of which — Kaling’s been quietly orchestrating her own production at home. The arrival of daughter Anne rounds out her family trio, joining Katherine Swati and Spencer Avu. In an era where every celebrity breakfast choice becomes Instagram fodder, her steadfast protection of her children’s privacy feels downright refreshing.
But don’t write off Kaling’s on-screen career just yet. During that same Paley appearance, she let slip that the acting bug hasn’t completely lost its bite. “I miss it,” she confessed, hinting at plans to create a vehicle for herself. The prospect of pulling double duty as actor-director particularly intrigues her — “unbelievably fun and so efficient,” in her words.
The entertainment landscape of 2025 barely resembles the one Kaling first navigated on “The Office.” Streaming wars have intensified, AI-generated content floods platforms, and audiences demand authenticity more than ever. Through it all, Kaling’s production company has emerged as a reliable source of fresh voices and diverse storytelling. Sometimes, it seems, stepping back from the spotlight amplifies impact more than standing in it.
For now, though, she’s letting that peculiar superstition guide her career choices. And honestly? With a track record like hers, who’s gonna question it? As industry veteran Ike Barinholtz once noted, “When Mindy Kaling vouches for you, people listen.” These days, they’re listening more intently than ever — whether she’s on camera or not.
Leave a Reply