Kal Penn Death on House; Kutner’s Suicide – Kal Penn Leaving House for Obama White House Job

April 7th, 2009 by Wendy

Tagged as: House

Kal Penn’s character’s death on last night’s House came as a shocker – Kutner’s suicide had many asking “Did Kal Penn die?” (or his character, anyway). Fox.com/kutner offered up a Kutner obituary and a memorial.

According to EW.com, Kal Penn asked to be written off of House – he’s heading to the White House to work with President Obama.

Kal Penn originally did volunteer work on the Obama campaign and will now work as the associate director in the White House office of public liaison.

Did you see the Kal Penn/Kutner death coming? Kutner died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Read the EW.com exclusive interview with Kal Penn and House executive producers to get more details about why Penn is leaving the series and why they decide to write Kutner out of the show with a suicide death.

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127 Comments, add yours

127 Responses to “Kal Penn Death on House; Kutner’s Suicide – Kal Penn Leaving House for Obama White House Job”

On April 7th 2009, Zeke wrote:

Hey, thanks so much for the spoiler alert.
On April 7th 2009, Michelle wrote:

There isn’t a “Spoiler” there – the episode aired last night and it was brilliant – really hit close to home…
On April 7th 2009, Dee wrote:

Thank you so much for clearing that up! Me and my husband were racking our brains as to why they were writing him out so abruptly. I guess working for the president is a good enough reason! Good for him!
And to Zeke: the episode where he died aired last night, I don’t think a “spoiler alert” was really in order for something that already aired in the U.S.
On April 7th 2009, Evan wrote:

Just another anti American biting the hand that feeds him, who really cares?
On April 7th 2009, Karen in DE wrote:

For those of us who record the program to watch at our convenience, yes, there SHOULD HAVE been a spoiler alert. Is this NOT 2009 ? ? ? ?
On April 7th 2009, john jordan wrote:

I think I will like him better on the show.
On April 7th 2009, Joseph Burfield wrote:

Last nights House hit home. I never expected Dr. K
would kill himself. Having lost three of my sons to drug overdoses that I never saw coming, it hit home.
On April 7th 2009, Suellen Skow wrote:

I think the episode was brilliant. I think the actress who should play the grief counselor is Alysia Reiner. I’ve always thought that she would play well opposite Hugh Laurie.

HOUSE is a brilliant show, the writers, actors and entire team are incredible. It just gets better and better, maybe they can bring back Anne Dudek’s character in flashbacks or “a ghost”. Keep up the good work, this program deserves every award they get!! I think its wonderful that you do shows that send messages and positive reinforcement to communities. Way to go! Continued sucess to all of you.
On April 7th 2009, Art wrote:

NO Big Deal!!

Since the replacement of the original cast, the show has lost some of its appeal.
On April 7th 2009, tonya wrote:

What as shame. To lose an actor like him and for what?
The president can surely recruit someone else from his never ending group of tax cheats and cronies. What a shame….
On April 7th 2009, Dee C. wrote:

I was walking on the treadmill watching the show and was crying so hard, I finally gave up and sat in the floor and watched it. It brought back awful memories because I had to terminate an employee for theft and he went home and killed himself. I was devastated and felt responsible, so this segment brought back all those feelings…..
On April 7th 2009, Jolene wrote:

For those of you that record the episode at a later time and feel this was a spoiler alert then maybe you should have watched the episode rather than reading articles online.
On April 7th 2009, Yolanda Anthony wrote:

I surely did not expect last nights show to be as intense as it was but then again “House” wouldn’t as great a show without those moments.

I do want to congratulate Kal Penn for taking the job at the White House. Good luck!
On April 7th 2009, Ziba wrote:

HA….This is the same guy who runs around with naked girls in movies. I thought they wrote him off because he was useless on the show. I guess now he can be useless somewhere else. They way they wrote him off is like saying good luck and dont let the door hit you on your way out. If they were happy about it, they would write him off in a more dignified way.
On April 7th 2009, Kathy wrote:

WOW, another actor letting their liberal stripes shine through. What a shock. Let him go, the show will be better without him.
On April 7th 2009, Laura Ross wrote:

I thought they were writing him off the show because his character was so boring and they were trying to lift the ratings. Either way, it works for me. I am interested who will replace him on the team.
On April 7th 2009, mike wrote:

i think his carrer would have been better at the House, rather than the Whitehouse.
On April 7th 2009, Ruth Anne Harris wrote:

Admittedly the suicide gave a good story line for House to explore why and everyone else to mourn, but I think it was terribly cruel to the audience. There was no story line to suggest that he was unhappy in life. As is true of suicides, you can’t always see it coming, but this was way too abrupt.
Why not give us an uplifting story — say one that gives us the opportunity to rejoice with Kal Penn over this wonderful opportunity. Why not a plot that shows he was selected as a part of the medical team for the President. That would open the door for him to come back as a guest or to a permanent role at some time in the future.
On April 7th 2009, Todd Beaulieu wrote:

I agree about the spoler alert. We haven’t watched the epsiode yet!!! I’ll have to be sneaky and not tell the wife.
On April 7th 2009, Just me wrote:

Spoiler…ok, SOME people watch shows after they air when they have more time. Why live your life by the TV schedule? Live it by your own schedule.

As for him passing on, bummer, but there will be another doctor and another character. The show is called House for a reason. Now if he died, that would be a shocker!
On April 7th 2009, MOJO wrote:

Just because you recorded it and didn’t watch the episode that aired doesn’t mean people will stop talking about what happened. Nor does it mean that there should be a spoiler alert on every episode just because people may have recorded it to watch at a later episode. Dont look up any info until you have watched the said episode.
On April 7th 2009, Skeyerune wrote:

When I think of him in bed with the bag of green as the “Kumar” character…and know he chose that role, I just can’t see him in the White House. Why would they hire someone that has given such a horrible, tasteless impression?
On April 7th 2009, Dale wrote:

Dang, does this mean no more Harold and Kumar movies……
On April 7th 2009, Sam wrote:

Maybe it’s just me but Kal’s character didn’t seem the least bit suicidal. I think it would have been alot more believable if his character was dark and breweding. Like I said maybe it’s just me
On April 7th 2009, AMA wrote:

Yes it is 2009, but maybe you shouldn’t have been searching for House on the internet if you hadn’t watched the episode yet.
On April 7th 2009, steve wrote:

If he’s going to work for the president, he should really shoot himself then.
On April 7th 2009, Terri wrote:

Let’s see if I get this correct…… an actor working for the president? When does the Obama actually stop acting and actually start working.
On April 7th 2009, Spencer wrote:

Dr. House indicated that he believed it was a murder. Are the next few shows going to be about House proving himself right as a regular detective?
On April 7th 2009, Terri wrote:

Oh and one more thing how many people are not working that he could have offered a job to vs. and actor who has a job. What a thoughtless thing to do. Yep he is taking care of America.
On April 7th 2009, TODD wrote:

Glad to see him go, he can sink with Obama.
On April 7th 2009, Cheryl wrote:

I am devastated!! I love his character…. Kutner and House are the ones that make me laugh! I kept waiting for the soap opera ending showing his evil twin hovering in the shadows. I was ticked off that they took him off the show. Now that I know why, I guess I will accept his moving on for bigger and better things! )
On April 7th 2009, Lori wrote:

Now that I know he is an Obama fan, I won’t miss him. If he had any sense, he would have been written off in another way, so he can come back when this administration is gone in 4 years. What a jerk. I would have kept the acting job instead of gambling on the newbee to keep him employed.
I didn’t see the episode yet either. I would have liked for the episode not to be ruined. Thanks.
On April 7th 2009, Debbie wrote:

Being a HUGE fan of House, Kutner’s death came as a shocker. I just think with how depressing times are these days, perhaps thjey could have had his departure less violent and less tragic, such as a better offer at a different hospital. Maybe it’s just me. I LOVE the show, but really think there’s enough crap happening in the real world. It was too heavy; however, with that said, no one saw it coming. The idea in itself was brilliant and it certainly was a shocker. I don’t think there has ever been a show that didn’t let out a peep in the commercials that a cast member was going to be killed off so tragically and unexpectedly . The whole episode was just too dark, right down to the lighting. Great song by Pete Yorn at the end though.
On April 7th 2009, Judy wrote:

when will the rerun show, I missed it last night?
On April 7th 2009, Cuz wrote:

Saw the show, excellent performances by the entire cast. Kal, great job on the show and best wishes on your new endeavor. Take this once in a lifetime opportunity and “be all you can be”, acting is going nowhere, it’ll be there when your ready to come back. Thank you for your service to our country. Good luck and God Bless.
On April 7th 2009, CJ wrote:

SPOILER ALERT?! ARE YOU SERIOUS? When something is aired it is fair game to talk about, there is nothing saying we all have to walk around with knowing nods to others just in case someone has it still sitting on their DVR! If you are really wanting no spoilers then avoid the internet!!!!!!
On April 7th 2009, Jag wrote:

I really dislike articles like this which don’t give spoiler alerts, but instead write out exactly what happened in their titles. As Zeke and Karen pointed out, there are many of us who record the show to watch at a later time; speaking only for myself, I don’t appreciate learning something like this prior to watching it.
On April 7th 2009, Vicci L wrote:

What is wrong with a sudden death or MVA? Why must Hollywood show suicide as if there are no after effects to anyone?
On April 7th 2009, Karen wrote:

Some people pick at everything. It is sort of ridiculous to expect news to be held back for your personal convenience. Once it is aired, it IS NO LONGER considered a spoiler. Some people record and don’t watch their recordings for months. You can’t wait forever, and too bad for them. You also CHOSE to click in to read this article for more information regardless of anything.
On April 7th 2009, Doreen wrote:

I was practically in tears last night. He was a good guy. Best of luck to him with Mr. President
On April 7th 2009, Donna wrote:

Have lost no sleep over his leaving “House” last night. Just what we need… more “Muslims for Obama.” He was hardly an unforgetable character for me. Have watched “House” since inception. I had to think about it to figure who he was on the show anyhow.

“House” seems to be on a downward slope anyhow!! So sad to lose a favorite program to the political crap promotion that writers are doing.
On April 7th 2009, Bet wrote:

Evan – how do you get “anti-American”? He’s leaving the show to work for the President! You – in House’s words – are an IDIOT.
On April 7th 2009, Teddi wrote:

My family watches “House” together and last night was a shocker. My favorite character was Dr. K, and I was so surprised. I had to look online to make sure the actor wasn’t really dead. I do hope the producers provide the warning signs for the 75% of suicidal people that do offer hints of their intentions.

P.S. I hope they make the suicide into a murder.
On April 7th 2009, Bill wrote:

It’s a free country, the guy can do what he likes. However I think show loses a great character.
On April 7th 2009, Sally wrote:

This was a total shock to touch on such a “taboo” subject. Maybe it will help some that have gone through the loss of a loved one in the same manner and validate it can happen anytime, anyone’s loved one…and didn’t even see it coming!
On April 7th 2009, tony wrote:

If he’s a tax cheat Obama wants him.
On April 7th 2009, Mr. LAAP wrote:

Bold gutsy move. Not new, but daring, not safe. I know it’s a T.V. show and I still can’t shake the emotional feeling. Either I am getting old or getting in touch with my feelings. Either way I like what I’m feeling (alive).
On April 7th 2009, yung wrote:

That sux to post the obit at the end…
I hope they catch hell for that
On April 7th 2009, mike wrote:

Well good for him. After he has been in so many PRO-marijuana movies, he can burn with O-biggity-bama! Let’s get back to the old days of George Washington and hemp plantations. That plant alone can do wonders for our economy. Oil for cars and household energy, cooking oil, food, rope, clothing, and its replenishable. Also Henry Ford built a car to run on Hemp oil and The body of the car was made with hemp resin. Look it up!
On April 7th 2009, Reva wrote:

I totally agree with Bet, Evan you are an IDIOT. Those of you that don’t like the President of our country, why don’t you move to another one?
On April 7th 2009, Julie wrote:

Great, just what we need. More people in the white house who know nothing about politics. This whole administration is just a dog and pony show, all flash and no substance. Who’s next Alec Baldwin for World Peace Liason?
On April 7th 2009, billy wrote:

Who cares when you have more than 8.5 % of the people without jobs and it is not going to get any better with what going on in the White House now
On April 7th 2009, Christina wrote:

Ok. I watched the show last night, but I usually don’t. Usually I will TiVo it and watch it in a few days. There is no problem writing about this on some website, but this is posted right on MSN.com! Right on the home page! There is a link that says something like “Dr. Kutner Dies on House.” If I hadn’t seen the show last night, that would have made me angry! In a world of DVRs, the people at msn.com or yahoo.com or any other search engine that tends to be the homepage for a lot of people should not post this stuff!!!

As for Kutner, I agree that the show was more boring after the cast changed. I don’t watch it as often now that Chase, Cameron and Foreman are not together, so it was shocking, but I am hoping to see Chase or Cameron back. Good for Kal going to work for Obama!
On April 7th 2009, Jenn wrote:

I love House and will miss the character but it will certainly not keep me from watching!
On April 7th 2009, KP wrote:

Let’s hope he doesn’t slit his wrists after sitting through a uh wel uh uh uh breifing by Obama and his statist toadies as they destroy the greatest nation on earth.
On April 7th 2009, mark wrote:

I feel Kutner added ballance to a show that is always trying to keep you off ballance.

Never missed a show and this is one of the better ones.

Thanks to Kal for his great work on the show and best of luck with your next acting challenge at the white house.
On April 7th 2009, Dad wrote:

My wife and I enjoy the show on a weekly basis and think that it is a wonderfuly written and played work. We are certainly “sad” to see Mr.Penn leave the cast as he brought s certain element to the show with his portrayal of “Kutner”. We wish him the best in his new line of work with our government. Folks of “House” all of you keep up the good work as long as you enjoy it.
On April 7th 2009, Ted wrote:

kinda sux, I recorded it so I wont tell my wife about it…… geez people, it’s a SHOW!!
On April 7th 2009, Patrick Woodall wrote:

House is my most favorite show and watch as
much as possible, even the reruns. Just caught
the ending last night and was wandering what
happened. Thanks for the update. The acting on
this show is sooooo SUPER. The wise cracking
House is fabulous and unpredictable, interesting
and true to life.
Goooo House—you rock!
On April 7th 2009, kimmy wrote:

Man, the only good darn show on earth. And for the fact of working for obama realy sucks why?????????????????????????
On April 7th 2009, Sandra Cody wrote:

At first I couldn’t even picture who he was…so that tells me that he didn’t make an impact on the show (in my opinion).
Won’t miss him at all! He and Obama can “sink” together!!!!!
On April 7th 2009, Mad wrote:

Who cares? Why is this such a hot topic of debate? You missed it? Big deal, it’s a TV show.
On April 7th 2009, Jim wrote:

I’m a ‘House’ regular. It was one of the best shows aired to date…. a total surprise… good acting.
Sidetrack: Ditto on Bet: “Evan, you ARE an idiot!” Working a TV series like House does not even offer the contribution possibilities to the nation as one would have working for the president. Even if you don’t agree with the president’s policies, you should see that. “Anti-American” does not mean “they don’t agree with me.” It’s not the same, idiot.
On April 7th 2009, marciaszep wrote:

I agree with Terri,
An actor working for the president! That’s how much Obama cares for us..
He doesn’t!
On April 7th 2009, PJ wrote:

This is to anybody who says anything like “I never saw it coming, they should have let us know he was unhappy”. I have had 3 suicides in my immediate family. You NEVER see it coming or you would stop it.

And to the couple I read about how it should have been a happy send off for him instead….have you ever WATCHED House? It’s not a happy show. You want happy, watch an old rerun of The Andy Griffith Show.
On April 7th 2009, Erkel wrote:

What a waste of a half-ways talent to go work with a no-talent idiot. But, maybe he can diagnose O’s mental problems.
Quo Warranto Mr. O!
On April 7th 2009, Kat wrote:

He left a successful career to go work for a Muslim-hugging, terrorist befriending, Socialist man who is going to be the death of our beloved country. Well done. *smirk*
On April 7th 2009, lavell wrote:

He also beat up and kicked SUPERMAN in the movie SUPERMAN RETURNS how unamerican is that…..he’s a bad dude! It’s all good, YOU PEOPLE need to stop trippin. Stop the hate so we can get our country back on track.
On April 7th 2009, roberio wrote:

Good for Kal Penn to sacrifice $money$ and *fame* to work in a historic administration at such a grave time in American History. Bad that the writers took a cheap, lazy and unthoughful way out. As suicide experts note, there are many signs subtle and overt that one “might” consider suicide. The writers of House could have written him out in an elegant manner. Instead they choose a cowardly way to increase ratings and “perhaps” to write a future storyline full of melancholic contrivances
On April 7th 2009, afrolatina wrote:

The episode was excellent and good luck to Kal Penn for wanting to serve his country…instead of sitting on blogs making stupid statements.
On April 7th 2009, bib wrote:

why are people having such a negative reactions because an actor left a show… SO WHAT… if that’s what will make him happy then great for him… it’s just a television show… which for an actor is just a job. so he went from one job to another job… and for anyone outside of him it really shouldn’t matter… i don’t get it… how does this make him “anti-american” , “liberal” oh brother how ridiculous…
On April 7th 2009, Jay M wrote:

While Kal Penn’s conversion to public service (in real life) is admirable, the method by which Fox wrote him (off) , shows a Great deal of Moral depravity. Mr Penn’s character did not need to be just another pathetic suicide, futher glorifying a disgraceful and cowardly act.
He could have simply moved on to some Fox-ticious Political appointment to do some (imaginary) good for the country.
On April 7th 2009, ESRCK wrote:

Well, at least he didn’t die in ‘real’ life – just ‘reel’ it was still shocking for us die hard fans to watch this episode!
On April 7th 2009, Shannah wrote:

GAH!!! *covers eyes* This stinks,… I’ve been DVRing episodes, and well….. sure didn’t expect this *sigh* That sucks.

But, for his RL, what a wonderful opportunity!!! Very happy he’s able to do what he wants, but will miss him on the show.

Good Luck Kal!!
On April 7th 2009, T-bone wrote:

For Kal, you’ll be missed (by your fans I’m sure), but as always, the show must go on. Good luck in your future endeavors.

For all of you morons spouting your political BS propaganda, leave it at your dinner table (where it belongs). This is not the place for it. Did I vote for Obama? No. But I’m not about to rag the man on what he’s doing, just like I didn’t rag Bush on what he did. You don’t like the president? Leave the country. It’s a free world. Period.
On April 7th 2009, E.T. wrote:

Ummm…. There are easier ways to get off the show, dude!
On April 7th 2009, Bridget wrote:

Every Monday I set my DVR to record “House”. Last night I decided to watch the show at the scheduled time. So glad I did. I would have been quite upset if I woke up this morning to find out this news.
On April 7th 2009, Don wrote:

It was a misprint….He’s not going to the White House….He’s going to the White Castle!
On April 7th 2009, O)wen wrote:

We will miss Kal on House. This is one show that makes Fox bearable. Good for the White House. Good Luck Kal.
On April 7th 2009, mary wrote:

I wonder if he has an education from harvard or something to that affect. Im sure he is very smart.

On another note. I think its ashame how many Americans are hoping that our President fail, that means if he fails we all fail.
On April 7th 2009, LAObserver wrote:

I was sad about his leaving and the way he left until I discovered he went to work for Obama. Now I am glad he is gone. He can circle the drain in the White House instead of the real House.
On April 7th 2009, briana wrote:

OOOOOOOOOOOOOhhhh my God……. i was shocked. and wished i had tvo so i could see it again. House is my favorite show.. I am still stunned. My brother-in-law was sure that he had died in real life. But i wish him the best in helping out our president and i am glad that he is able to be a part of this historic time in our lives….
On April 7th 2009, Chris wrote:

I don’t agree that they should have made his character dark and breweding. 13 did say that 25% don’t leave a note! We lost our son 4 yrs ago by suicide and everyone was shocked including his closest friends. He was the type of person that always gave the helping hand and made people smile. I applaud the courage they have taken in approaching the “taboo” subject just as it happens in real life. I feel showing the very different ways people deal with this tragedy was a great connection to all that have been through this. It also shows those who haven’t just how devastating it really is.
On April 7th 2009, jack carlson wrote:

Why didn’t Obama hire someone who was unemployed? That would have made too much sense. I just don’t understand this Hollywood fascination with a Chicago con-artist!
On April 7th 2009, DrHorn98 wrote:

Who cares – let him go be with Obama – the show has declined a lot from a “never miss an episode” to ho-hum since the original cast broke up.

He never did add much and therefore he and obama deserve each other.
On April 7th 2009, Tink wrote:

House is one of my favs, and I will miss Dr. Kutner. Can’t wait to see what will happen, Chase or Cameron return to the team or a new character!

Why do people assume that actors can’t do anything else? Certainly actors are as multidimensional as any one else. Why can’t actors be interested in politics(Does anybody remember President Reagan?) or be educated in any other field? People make career changes everyday of the week. I don’t think actors should be denied the opportunity to change careers any more than any one else. And isn’t it time for a new perspective in Washington. The old way of solving issues doesn’t seem to have worked very well.

Personally, I am jealous of Cal Penn’s opportunity to serve his country. Bet his salary cut will put him in a lower tax bracket, but the honor of working with the President of the United States of America would make it all worthwhile.
On April 7th 2009, amanda wrote:

I think Kal is a great actor and just because he is working for the president doesn’t mean anything. A lot of great actors have strong political sides that just doesn’t show. The way he went out was very tastefully done and I hope that all the anti Obama’s will realize that hes better than any old white man who will just follow in the footsteps of Bush….You’ll be thanking Obama in 4 years when he turns everything or at least starts turning the economy around. GO OBAMA AND GO HOUSE!!!
On April 7th 2009, Julie Laumark wrote:

That sure came out of nowhere. 2 people I was close to were suicide victims. I think “House” did a great job of showing how everyone the victim knew trying to deal with their guilt & how devastating suicide is to the survivors.
On April 7th 2009, Nellie wrote:

I agree with you Jack. He should have done this 8 years ago and worked for a drunken coke head.
On April 7th 2009, Eliza wrote:

Ok, House is a great show. But, it’ll only make the show more interesting if they are investigating the possibility of a murder. Also, with suicide there usually isn’t a big “to do”. Sometimes there are signs, but not always. Unless you’ve had it directly affect you, why comment as you don’t know. On the topic of all the defamatory comments about Obama…well, that just shows that bigotry and ignorance are still ALIVE AND THRIVING in this “great country of ours” that lives and dies by a TV show. You don’t have to like him, but try to have respect since he was voted in by a damn near landslide. I had to put up with Bush for 8 years and did so with an opinion, but not a nasty one. Peace love and hair grease!! LOL…
On April 7th 2009, Brandy wrote:

I thought the show was great. It kept me wondering what was going on, stuff like that always leaks out. I wish him well on his new job. I would also like to add the suicide awareness message at the end was very tastefull.
On April 7th 2009, Ron wrote:

I think there are alot of IDIOTS out there who seem to think THEY know how to run the country. Really? Well, then follow your big mouth with action and step up to the plate and let us all take turns at kicking you in the b@lls even though we don’t know you personally. Should be fun!!
On April 7th 2009, cool wrote:

is it really that hard to type the words spoiler alert. i could care less either way, people are making too big of a deal out something really minor. i used to like kutner and his harold and kumar movie, now he is just another obama idiot
On April 7th 2009, Doug wrote:

After working with Obama he will want to commit suicide. Has he paid his taxes?
On April 7th 2009, Sheila wrote:

It is a TV program – get a life! What qualifies him to work for the U.S. government other than probably his nationality – not sure on that one? Can’t Obama find anyone who is not a criminal or an actor to help run this country – maybe he should look for a graduate of Harvard or some other outstanding educational institution who majored in government! What is the problem – he can’t find anyone in Washington who does not have skeletons in their closet??
On April 7th 2009, CHAD wrote:

I liked Kutner but going to work for a socialist is NOT good character!! thanks Evan.
On April 7th 2009, Gregg wrote:

Does that mean they will bring back Sela
Ward to help comfort House. Her character was the only one to stand up to him. That tension between them was amazing.
On April 7th 2009, Jeff wrote:

Have to say congrats for joining the adminstration. I see some haters above that will hate no matter what. Dont know if suicide was the best way to write him out, if he hasnt paid all his taxes (Tom Dashel) he may not get the admistration job and may need to get back on TV
On April 7th 2009, Donnie wrote:

Hey TODD, I sank 8 inches into yo mama last night
On April 7th 2009, greg wrote:

some of you people need to get a life, you take this show way too serious… what a bunch of losers
On April 7th 2009, Jo wrote:

I was soooo darned upset as I watched this last night!! He was one of my favorite characters, besides House. I thought “how could they do
this”?? It was a very cruel way of ending his role.
Then I read why today.

I’ll miss seeing him in the show.
Good Luck,

Jo
On April 7th 2009, Anna wrote:

It was definitely a surprise when Kutner died. I knew someone was going to die (or suspected, from talk circulating on the web), but I really was not expecting it to be him. I just sat there and stared at the television screen while the commericals played, like, “What?”

I’m not sure how much I liked Kutner, though out of the three newer doctors, he was probably my favorite. But I really liked the episode, nonetheless (in a sad sort of way). I wouldn’t have had them portray it any other way. It was a shock, yes, but that was what made the episode so good.
On April 7th 2009, kelly wrote:

All the anti Obama comments sound like a bunch of sore losers whining that they didn’t get their way. Well, the rest of us sat and watched while Bush created the mess we’re in. At least give the guy a chance to fix it. It’s really terrible that people will take any opportunity to spread their negativity and hate. Whether you voted for him or not, you should try to support him. Of course we have the right to criticize our government, but there seems to be so many people who will just refuse to see anything good come from this administration.
On April 7th 2009, Brett wrote:

I liked his character and the H&K movies were what they were intended to be.Now,the pres of the United States has a position for him?When is everyone going to see that Obama is all smoke and mirrors?I want to see him fail as I know he will,I wish him no harm because I want the people to see the end result of the man they voted for. p.s.for the record,Nancy Pelosi is useless
On April 7th 2009, Paula wrote:

Shame on you for ruining this episode for me as well….I too have to take episodes and often cannot view them until the weekend….so very disappointed to find this out ahead! Shame, shame shame for not using spoiler alert!
On April 7th 2009, Linda wrote:

Haven’t seen the show yet, but it’s certainly a worthwhile topic. As for going to work for Obama, at least he’s working with entertainment and community issues. It seems the actors, or “spin doctors” working for GW were actually under the guise of running the government. Is that somehow better? If Obama is a Chicago con-artist, does that make GW a Texas con-artist? Or is Obama a Hawaiian con-artist and GW a Massachusettes con-artist? Or are we talking about people who got elected by other people (us maybe?) to take a job that is very difficult to do, who are hiring people to do work they might be good at. But let’s not miss a chance to be nasty.
On April 7th 2009, denise wrote:

The only reason I watch HOUSE is because of Hugh Laurie anyway… He could be on there all by himself and I’d watch!!!
There was a wonderful article about him in this past Sundays PARADE… anyone else read it???
“HOUSE” is the BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On April 7th 2009, Kevin wrote:

Way to go Eliza! You realy hit the bullseye . Reading some of these comments makes you think that these people are missing the point. IT’S A TV SHOW PEOPLE!! You can’t make every one happy every day with every show. I also thought the message on suicide awareness was well done. And to all you haters out there, don’t just sit around complaining. Get your name on the ballot! Any ballot YOU can make a difference !
On April 7th 2009, joe wrote:

I disagree with you Nellie, it’s more popular to work for a lying inexperienced cracksmoking messiah.
On April 7th 2009, dmb wrote:

Kinda silly how many people are so damn moved because a character was written out of the script. He DID NOT REALLY kill himself. OMG, it hit soooo close to HOME! Duh. It’s fiction. Sorry for your loss, guy, but if you had THREE sons die of DRUG OVERDOSES and didn’t see any of them coming… well, I guess hands off parenting didn’t work. Not be to cruel, but let’s get involved in our children’s lives so we don’t find out they are using drugs only when they die, one after another.
On April 7th 2009, Receding House Fan wrote:

I love to watch House-it is the only show I make an effort to watch, but what a crappy episode; they didn’t even take the effort to write Kutner out gracefully. The episode was choppy and illogical, and not entertaining. Surreal? heck no, just crap. House is sliding in my book; it’s time for another show other than House now. (We still love your character House, and Cuddy, but your ‘fam’ in the hospital really are not entertaining-time to jump ship to your own show)
On April 7th 2009, Helena wrote:

Fuck all of you for posting photo after photo of scantily clad “hot girls” and MILFS,along with self-esteem counseling links!That’s along the same line as those magazines that tell us how to lose 2 dress sizes in 2 weeks,and on the cover is a picture of the triple chocolate cheesecake we MUST have the recipe for!I am a total MILF,by the way,and I’m sick to death of women who feel they have to be photographed half naked in order to feel desirable.
On April 7th 2009, KRI wrote:

For all of you anti-Obama morons out there…He did not put us in this mess but he is doing a whole lot more to correct it than you are with your lame comments. He is more intelligent, articulate and caring than any of you could ever hope to be. The whole point of this forum was to discuss a TV show. If you are so smart why don’t you go work in Washington….GET A LIFE!
On April 7th 2009, just ed wrote:

well, it was sad, but I hope they make either Cameron or Chase regulars now…
On April 7th 2009, Cindi wrote:

I think cameron will be back, did you see the previews?? Looks hot!
On April 7th 2009, House fan from day 1 wrote:

I wasn’t a Kutner fan. I felt he was too serious all the time. Boring character. I was shocked, yes. But soon got over it. On w/the next storyline, please!
On April 7th 2009, Earl wrote:

Congratulations Kal and to President Obama Good Choice!!!!! Change is coming and this is what we need to bad alot of people can only focus on the negative (are you happy in your own life?). Obama has his work cut out for him helping to clean up our economy from the last administration. Hey Kal ask President Obama if he would consider adopting an English Mastiff instead!!! The Gentle Giant to match our honest and gentle president!!!!
On April 7th 2009, Stacey wrote:

I really like how the show contributes more than just a suicide awareness message at the end of a really powerful episode. They are selling “house-ism” shirts with the proceeds benefiting NAMI…nice to see a show be so social responsible.
On April 7th 2009, Armand Hammer wrote:

I find it very interesting that so many of you so called AMERICANs find a way to take your shot at OUR President. YOU are the ones who should get out of this country. Did YALL forget that this is the melting pot of the world. WE are the tresspassers in this country. If at the turn of the last century we would have closed our borders many of you who came here for the American dream would still be stomping grapes or picking melons and pockets. God Bless America !!!!!!!
On April 7th 2009, Don wrote:

You people depress me. You really do. An actor gives up a role in a popular show for public service and you down him for it? So what he supported Obama and now works for his administration.. it just means he’s an American who stands for something and is now going to serve the country for the same reasons he supported who he thought was best for the country. If more people were like him, this country would be that much more self evident and driven.

It is TRULY amazing how people say the daftest things… like quiting a TV show to go work for the government, serving the president makes him un-American, and how they don’t have respect for him now that they know he was an Obama supporter.

Would you say the same thing about people who go join the military now? They’re also federal employees who serve the current administration’s policies. Are they un-American too? Absolute morons who really need to come off your bum soreness.

Anyway.. far as how they wrote him off.. I think a sudden accident would’ve been more appropriate, granted just as sudden. Suicide is way too close to home for too many viewers and was not remotely foreseen in Kutner’s character development. They never made House dig into Kutner’s life like he did the other staff, so as to avoid something like this, so it just doesn’t make sense.

Now he’ll have to.. dig into Kutner’s life post mortem, to make it make sense.. and keep House’s character consistent.
On April 7th 2009, Shreya wrote:

Personally, the suicide was a brilliant move on the part of the writers. Being a mental health professional, it opens people’s eyes to the issue of suicide, as well as the misunderstanding that a suicidal person has visual symptoms. Sometimes people show no anguish on the outside, but are dying from pain on the inside. I agree it was a shock and it was not pleasant, but who ever watched House for the pleasantness anyway? I loved Kutner’s character and I am sad that he will no longer be on the show, but good for him. He should pursue his dreams.
On April 8th 2009, heidi wrote:

wow that is so awful. i cant believe that this happened. its bad enough about heath ledger and now KUMAR!!!!! Harold and Kumar will never be the same now. i loved there movies. and wow some of you ple really need to grow up. so what if he was working for president obama. he was a person to. i cant believe that some ple can be so cruel. maybe you ple should go and shoot yourself, because assholes like you dont derserve to fucking live.
On April 10th 2009, linda D. Mc Lean wrote:

well Obama needs this, how about someone qualified for the job
On April 12th 2009, Don wrote:

@ heidi: Amen.. but Kal Penn didn’t die.. so it won’t likely be the last we hear of Harold & Kumar.

Just the last for the next few years… unless Kal Penn runs for Senate.. which.. does have a nice ring to it, admittedly.
On April 14th 2009, vimal wrote:

I saw that Kal Penn was going to be working with the obama administration on CNN a few weeks ago. I was wondering what that would mean for his job at Fox, I guess I got my answer. Im really upset to see him leave the show.
On April 16th 2009, Zeke wrote:

It’s common courtesy to not give away a major plot point (spoiler) in the HEADLINE of an article. Having not seen the episode, I wouldn’t have clicked through to any article dealing with it. I do not take issue with discussion, I just wish they would have some respect for those who haven’t had a chance to view the episode yet.
On September 2nd 2009, Conne R. wrote:

Of the three “new fellows,” I liked the Kutner character best. But it’s just a TV show. Read Kal’s bio. He is an educated man who is taking time out of his “TV star” schedule to gain more education, teach and participate in a positive political agenda. This is just the kind of guy we need in the White House. I say, “Best of luck, Kal.”

Furthermore, he had the guts to close the door on further appearances on highly rated and probably lucrative “House.” Kudos to Fox and “House” as well for usng his exit to spotlight the tragic societal problem of suicide. They could have done it an easier way, but they chose to make a point.

BTW, those of you who claim to have had the episode “spoiled” need to stay off of House blogs. What did you THINK was going to happen? Conne R.