From the Upper East Side to Hollywood: How Gossip Girl Launches the Careers of Its Young Stars

Gossip Girl, the hit teen drama that aired from 2007 to 2012, not only captured the hearts of millions of viewers but also launched the careers of its young cast. From the Upper East Side to Hollywood, Gossip Girl gave actors the chance to shine and cemented their places in the entertainment industry. Let’s take a closer look at how the show kickstarted the careers of its stars.

Blake Lively

Blake Lively played Serena van der Woodsen, the It Girl of the Upper East Side, and quickly became a fan favorite. Gossip Girl was Lively’s breakout role, and it led to several opportunities in Hollywood. She starred in films such as The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, The Town, and A Simple Favor. Lively’s charisma and natural talent for acting made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.

Leighton Meester

Leighton Meester played Blair Waldorf, Serena’s best friend and rival. Meester’s portrayal of the complex and ambitious Blair made her a standout on the show. After Gossip Girl, Meester continued to work in television, starring in shows such as Making History and Single Parents. She also appeared in films such as The Judge and The Roommate.

Penn Badgley

Penn Badgley played Dan Humphrey, the outsider who falls in love with Serena. Badgley’s portrayal of the brooding and sensitive Dan made him a heartthrob for many viewers. After Gossip Girl, Badgley starred in several films, including Easy A and Margin Call. He also returned to television with the leading role in the hit show, You.

Chace Crawford

Chace Crawford played Nate Archibald, the golden boy of the Upper East Side. Crawford’s good looks and charming personality made him a standout on the show. After Gossip Girl, Crawford starred in films such as The Haunting of Molly Hartley and What to Expect When You’re Expecting. He also appeared in several television shows, including Blood & Oil and The Boys.

Ed Westwick

Ed Westwick played Chuck Bass, the brooding bad boy of the Upper East Side. Westwick’s portrayal of the troubled and complex Chuck made him a fan favorite. After Gossip Girl, Westwick continued to act in both television and film. He starred in shows such as Wicked City and White Gold, and appeared in films such as Romeo and Juliet and Billionaire Ransom.

In conclusion, Gossip Girl was not only a cultural phenomenon but also a launching pad for the careers of its young stars. The show’s popularity gave its cast the opportunity to showcase their talents and cement their places in the entertainment industry. Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley, Chace Crawford, and Ed Westwick have all continued to work in Hollywood and have become some of the most recognizable faces in the industry. The show may have ended, but its impact on the careers of its stars will be felt for years to come.