Pelphrey Declares Family Life an “Insane Zoo” in Candid Interview

Tom Pelphrey told People today that balancing fatherhood with Kaley Cuoco and their daughter Matilda has transformed his daily routine into an “insane zoo” of dogs, naps and nonstop adventure at home. In the exclusive interview, the HBO star explained how late fatherhood reshaped his priorities and inspired his new role in the series Task.

In the interview, Pelphrey emphasized the profound impact of parenthood on his outlook and career choices. He described juggling Zoom interviews around a toddler’s interruptions and background barking from their four family dogs as part of a “great adventure” that leaves little time for rest.

Pelphrey, 43, shared a glimpse into his typical day in Thousand Oaks, California, where he and fiancée Cuoco, 39, raise their 2-year-old daughter. “It’s like an insane zoo here all day, every day,” he laughed, noting that Matilda’s unpredictable appearances on camera have become a charming interview feature.

Despite the chaos, Pelphrey said fatherhood brings clarity. He admitted he’s “confident” about his role as Robbie Pendergrast in HBO’s new crime drama Task because his own experience as a dad informs the character’s fierce devotion to family-even when his actions cross moral lines.

Pelphrey also revealed he lets Matilda nap dictate his schedule. “I’ve heard rumors of this 30-minute nap that can change your life. I just can’t pull it off,” he quipped, underscoring the challenges of synchronizing work commitments with toddler routines.

Cuoco was first to read the Task script and immediately praised its depth. Pelphrey admitted her endorsement sealed the deal: “She said, ‘This is one of the best episodes of TV I’ve ever read,’ and I agreed,” he said, adding that the role’s exploration of a good man pushed to extremes resonated strongly with his new paternal perspective.

Task premieres on HBO Max on Sunday, September 7, following Pelphrey’s portrayal of a sanitation worker who turns to robbing drug dealers to support his family. The series reunites him with Mark Ruffalo and marks a milestone in his transition from acclaimed supporting roles in Ozark and Outer Range to leading man status.