Penn Badgley and Blake Lively were once the golden couple both on and off screen. While they played the iconic duo Dan Humphrey and Serena van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl, their real-life romance was just as captivating. Now, years later, an old interview comment from Badgley has resurfaced, reminding fans just how impactful their relationship truly was—especially for him.
As Badgley gears up for the final season of You on Netflix and Lively remains in the headlines due to her legal drama involving director Justin Baldoni, interest in their former relationship has reignited. A 2023 interview snippet where Badgley praises Lively is making the rounds again, sparking nostalgia and curiosity among fans.
Blake Lively Helped Badgley Stay Grounded During a Turbulent Time
In a 2023 interview with Variety, Badgley opened up about the challenges he faced while filming Gossip Girl in his early 20s. He described that period as one with a “dark undercurrent”—not because of substance abuse, but due to the overwhelming pressure and scrutiny that came with sudden fame.
He credited Lively with helping him stay grounded, saying, “Blake didn’t drink, and I think our relationship in some ways saved me from forcing myself to go down that road.” The actor emphasized that her healthy lifestyle and steady presence kept him from spiraling during a vulnerable phase of his life.
A Relationship That Lasted On and Off Set
Badgley and Lively dated from 2007 to 2010, while simultaneously portraying a couple on screen. Despite their real-life breakup, they continued to work together professionally until the series ended in 2012. In a 2013 Elle interview, Badgley said the two were “ultimately professional” after their split, even as Lively later married actor Ryan Reynolds.
He also referred to their working relationship during the show as a “six-year endurance test,” noting that their bond helped them get through the challenges of filming. “Like anything valuable, it was good and it was bad and it was a learning experience,” he said at the time.
Life After Love: An ‘Amicable Silence’
In a 2015 interview with the Huffington Post, Badgley shared that he and Lively had naturally lost touch but described their post-relationship status as one of “amicable silence.” There was no drama—just two people who had moved on with mutual respect.
Lively echoed this sentiment in a 2017 Vanity Fair interview, explaining that they kept their relationship and breakup private out of respect for their work. She also acknowledged the concern that their romance could affect their jobs but believed their chemistry ultimately benefited the show.
Where Are They Now?
As of April 2025, Penn Badgley is preparing for the final chapter of You, with Netflix confirming its premiere on April 24. Meanwhile, Blake Lively has made headlines for an ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni, the director of the upcoming It Ends With Us film adaptation. The lawsuit, which includes claims of harassment and defamation, is expected to go to trial in March 2026.
Though years have passed since their romance, the influence of Lively on Badgley’s life during his formative career years remains undeniable. Their story is a rare example of a young Hollywood relationship that not only survived the spotlight—but quietly shaped the people they’ve become today.
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