Kal Penn Joins Obama’s Staff

He’s more known for his stoner-persona Kumar and work in The Namesake, but actor Kal Penn will soon be taking on a role that supersedes even Hollywood. The Indian-American actor is joining President Obama’s staff as the Associate Director in the White House Office of Public Liaison.

“They do outreach with the American public and with different organizations,” Penn told EW.com about his new position.”They’re basically the front door of the White House. They take out all of the red tape that falls between the general public and the White House.”

Penn ended his run on the Fox series House last night, April 6, to take the position. (We’ll keep the spoilers out for those of you who DVR’ed it). 

Of his acting career, Penn told EW.com that he won’t be retiring, “But for the time being, I won’t be acting.”