Actors frequently go through all kinds of things to be able to fully embody a character, from learning fight choreography and languages they’ve never spoken before, to transforming their bodies in one way or another to more accurately fit the person they’ll be playing. You star Penn Badgley experienced that recently when he signed on to star in his 2026 movie schedule entry, You Deserve Each Other, and has now spoken out about the pressure he felt to lose weight for his role.

What Did Penn Badgley Say About The Pressure To Lose Weight For His New Movie?

If anything, Penn Badgley has never seemed like someone who’s had any issue maintaining a lean physique, much less been an actor who’d be required to lose weight for a role. However, as the Gossip Girl talent recently relayed on his popular Hollywood star-led podcast, known as Podcrushed, his part in the upcoming rom-com, You Deserve Each Other, definitely made him feel like he needed to drop some weight. As he said while talking to his co-star in the film, Meghann Fahy:

I can imagine that signing on for a part within days of shooting can be stressful under even the most standard circumstances. But, when you add any kind of transformation-for-the-character aspect that stress is probably dialed up by quite a bit.

The new film is a book to screen adaptation of Sarah Hogle’s novel of the same name, which focuses on a couple that’s planning their impending wedding, but who secretly have come to hate each other. So, they both begin to attempt to undermine the nuptials by doing things to force their partner’s hand to call the whole thing off. Apparently, Badgley’s character is a bit obsessive about fitness/how his body looks, and that’s what made the Easy A actor “consumed with losing enough weight.” He continued:

He definitely makes a good point when it comes to “real-life good” bodies and the “Marvel body” we’ve seen on so many of the actors who’ve played superheroes over the past 15 or so years. The expectations for people like Chris Hemsworth (who toned down his workouts for Avengers: Doomsday), Brie Larson, and Charlie Cox to completely transform their bodies with intense workouts that lead to a lot of visible musculature is well known.

It doesn’t typically apply to actors who star in romantic comedies, though (especially not in the extreme), and Badgley noted that he’s never felt the pressure to tone up for a job before, adding that he thought, “Of all things, a fucking comedy, of course” when realizing the appropriateness of him getting “kind of ripped” for the role. Luckily, it at least sounds like the pressure didn’t really come from anyone else, and it seems that the film will be a funny one to look for when it finally debuts.

While the podcasting market continues to expand, with everyone and their mom seeming to have one, there truly are some gems on the airwaves. Regardless of your familiarity and regularity in dabbling, where does one start? As someone who dabbles in a few series and loves a good pop culture injection of any form, a celebrity-hosted show can offer a lot! These stars’ pods cover plenty of ground from BTS on favorite sets to politics to emotionally forward conversations. If you’re lost, in a rut or just looking for another stellar title to add to your audio arsenal, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in!

Oprah’s Super Soul - Oprah Winfrey

We know her, we love her, and the dynamic Oprah Winfrey continues to evolve and push interviewing bounds. Super Soul is more or less an adaptation of her inspiration and often a spiritual talk show that ran through the early 2020s. Be prepared to hear some deep conversations if you aren’t already, though we all know it tends to come with the unmistakable Hollywood giant.

Literally! With Rob Lowe - Rob Lowe

The 61-year-old Hollywood vet has wide-ranging conversations with plenty of well-known professionals. Whether it's well-established or rising stars in movies and TV, music or sports, Lowe jumps right in with them. And as a member of The Brat Pack, the pull he has with landing guests is pretty impressive and diverse.

Renegades: Born In The USA - Barak Obama, Bruce Springsteen

Though it only ran for one season and has 8 episodes to its name, the former president and The Boss’ collab rocked. Their conversations consisted of the changing dynamics of the USA through the lens of music, personal happenings, fatherhood and future revitalization. They also share their backstory on how the friendship and pod came to be.

Goop - Gwyneth Paltrow

Paltrow and Goop’s virality continues to regularly break the internet (especially those body-forward scented candles). But the Hollywood A-lister and her empire went to new heights with the addition of their own podcast, which she hosts. Naturally, it dives in holistically to grander topics with today’s ‘brightest thinkers and culture changers’ to dissect the conversation at hand.

Wiser Than Me - Julia Louis-Dreyfus

As always, when Louis-Dreyfus commits to a project, she knocks a role out of the park. One of her most recent titles as host of Wiser Than Me is no different; her interviewing women who are expert veterans in their given career is a true delight. She’s had everyone from Jane Goodall to Jane Fonda, and she’s just getting going.

Good Hang - Amy Poehler

Don’t overlook the Parks & Rec star’s Good Hang, even though it may be one of the newest entries on the list. Poehler’s sunshine bright vibes radiate through the show while she chats with A-list Hollywood names. But the most signature part shines through when she has a mini cameo from a friend of the guest who praises them ahead of the main convo. (If you haven’t seen or know where the viral clip of Rachel Dratch fumbling with headphones on a Zoom, now you do.)

Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend - Conan O’Brien

In the comedian’s corner of the interview world, you can certainly expect his signature smart silliness he has brought to the masses over the decades. But why did he jump into the world? As the title implies, and per his summary, O’Brien realized after years of interviewing celebs, ‘the only people at his holiday party are the men and women who work for him,’ and wanted to change that.

Fly On The Wall - David Spade, Dana Carvey

While not an outright Saturday Night Live podcast, two huge alums, Spade and Carvey, lead this industry-leaning show. The pair has their fair share of guests and covers plenty of Studio 8H lore depending on who’s with them that week. Beyond the sketch show conversations, they often jump into current pop culture, current events and even fan-submitted fare.

Bill Gates And Rashida Jones Ask Big Questions - Bill Gates, Rashida Jones

Gates and Jones came together at the beginning of the pandemic in search of musing about some big questions. Though there are only five episodes, nothing seems off the table, from climate change to the psychology behind lying. But the unexpected co-hosts tackle these larger sociological and worldly topics with intentionality and ease.

The Big Podcast With Shaq - Shaquille O'Neal

The dynamic retired basketball player continues to surprise us with his plays (he just confirmed he was a Swiftie on the Kelces’ pod), and did just that when he kicked off his new podcast network by way of his own. Aptly named, Shaq and co-host Adam Lefkoe, of course, talk sports among themselves and alongside guests, but also hit a range of topics.

Minnie Questions - Minnie Driver

The Good Will Hunting actress’ offering sets up each interview through seven thoughtful questions. Though each question is relatively simple, it’s proven time and again that it unearths quite a conversation. Her therapy session meets fireside chat structure stands apart from other celebrity podcasts since its intention dives into a soulful exploration of life’s questions.

All There Is With Anderson Cooper - Anderson Cooper

While plenty of entries on the list cover an array of subjects from casual conversations, behind-the-scenes Hollywood magic and love and relationships, Cooper dives into loss (which he’s experienced multiple times over since childhood). What started as the beloved CNN news anchor processing the passing of his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, and the ins and outs that go along with it, has blossomed into something much more. He’s built a safe ground for guests and listeners alike to reflect and process the big topic.

Red Table Talk - Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith, Adrienne Banfield-Norris

The multi-generational, familial women-hosted show has gone viral a few times over since its inception on Facebook. Nothing, as we’ve seen, is off limits in this conversational style show and doesn’t shy away when things get nitty gritty. Though the OG got the axe in 2023, it got going again with no ties to Facebook, and its episode catalog continues to rank with some of the best Hollywood fodder out there today.

The Weekly Show With Jon Stewart - Jon Stewart

The beloved TV host has a podcast that pairs with his regularly scheduled show. The Weekly Show offers a more expansive look into our ever-developing world with notable minds in essential roles across the professional field. If you’re looking for even more Stewart material, he had a short-lived but excellent 2 season show called The Problem with Jon Stewart that dove into topics that were ‘too big for TV.’ With either, you can count on a laugh paired with some big, thought-provoking discussions.

SmartLess - Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, Sean Hayes

SmartLess is like an improv dinner party you weren’t invited to, but somehow snuck into. Each episode brings a surprise guest to the table, and with it comes comedy, curiosity, and the kind of bromantic chaos that three A-listers with zero filters can deliver. It’s part talk show, part therapy session, and all charm—who would’ve guessed the vibe would be achieved by the Michael and Gob Bluth actors with a dash of the Jack McFarland actor.

Armchair Expert - Dax Shepard

Maybe one of the most recognizable and longstanding on the list, Shepard started his series in 2018. Though the premise is relatively simple in terms of chatting with well-known faces, things can go deep quickly. The CHiPs alum has had ex-costars like Lauren Graham, incidentally spill about Parenthood peer, Mae Whitman’s baby daddy, and Oscar-nominated stars like Michelle Williams reflect about her late ex-partner, Heath Ledger. Needless to say, there’s a lot to work with here (and a 300+ episode backlog to sift through).

Office Ladies - Angela Kinsey and Jenna Fischer

Of course, there was bound to be at least one rewatch pod in the bunch, and with The Office ranking as one of the best sitcoms ever, it’s a natural pick to include. Kinsey (who played Angela Martin/Lipton/Schrute) and Fischer (who played Pam Beesly Halpert) recount excellent tidbits and memories as they rewatch the NBC classic while hosting Dunder Mifflin cast and crew members.

Life Is Short - Justin Long

First and foremost, I’ve got to give the Jeepers Creepers actor’s name for his show is A+ play on words (specifically short and long). But, behind the small chuckle the title of the pod offers is a surprisingly poignant base for Long and his brother, who co-hosts the show. The siblings jump in the deep end with their guests and discuss all there is about life, which includes everything from emojis to their perspective on life.

LeVar Burton Reads - LeVar Burton

Fiction lovers and previous PBS Kids unite! The beloved Reading Rainbow star’s pod is a modern-day take on the classic 26-year run show, but now catered toward adults. Short form stories are the main genre he dives into each week, and the whole thing feels just like a little bit of a time machine, for those who tuned in regularly to RR.

New Heights - Jason, Travis Kelce

No, I’m not talking about their mom, Donna Kelce, landing a spot on S4 of The Traitors US, but it’s worth mentioning. The NFL family show is full of BTS looks into being brothers while also playing football professionally. They also often go out of bounds of the shared ground and discuss everything from pop culture to UFOs.

The High Life - Ricki Lake

The former television host is getting back to her roots with The High Life. And while she still has plenty of Tinseltown names as guests, the focus with her offering is health and wellness. Nothing is off the table within the larger landscape; she hits everything from menopause to energy healing.

Las Culturistas - Bowen Yang, Matt Rogers

In case you’d like to know, this is my ride or die pick of the list. The college besties-turned-Hollywood-darling co-hosts have amassed a cult turned mainstream following thanks to culture catch-ups, regular bits they have A-list guests participate in (what sparked their interest in culture and their wry ‘I Don’t Think So Honey!’ critique of something) and their own award show. Clearly, I could go on about it, but if you need more proof, Tina Fey’s iconic advice to Yang speaks to why we, ‘readers, kayteighs, publicists, finalists and kyles,’ love it all.

WTF With Marc Maron - Marc Maron

The rough around the edges comedian and actor’s podcast is one of the most well-known celebrity series. As a blueprint of public figures' iterations to come, Maron got started in 2009 after his radio show got canned. In the decade-plus he’s been at it, he hosted writers, directors, comedians, actors and many more in the typical style that is commonplace today. But, heads up, he just announced his show will end this fall, so don’t miss out!

Podcrushed - Penn Badgley, Nava Kavelin, Sophie Ansari

The Gossip Girl alum’s shared show isn’t a far cry from the hit teen series fodder. They’ve just spun the clock a little further back to schoolyard drama and middle school crushes. Badgley, alongside Kavelin and Ansari, takes on listeners' stories, reads them and explores all the ins and outs of starting to grow up (and all the turmoil that tags along).

Broad Ideas - Rachel Bilson, Olivia Allen

While you may know of Bilson’s other pod, Beyond The O.C., involving ex-castmate Melinda Clarke, Broad Ideas includes her longtime bestie, Olivia Allen. The new duo essentially cover any ground two girlfriends would in any given conversation (mental health to ghosts are promised). But hosting a new guest to join in on the fun each week brings it to the next level.

The Mess Around With Hannah And Lamorne - Lamorne Morris, Hannah Simone

If you know anything about where these two co-hosts met, you can probably guess this is a New Girl rewatch series. And if you know that, you probably know they played CeCe and Winston (Bishop), respectively, and the title comes from a bit that the characters shared. Also, plenty of past cast and crew come through to reminisce about all the shenanigans that went down in 4D.

Films To Be Buried With With Brett Goldstein - Brett Goldstein

Though he’s still relatively new to the scene, the Ted Lasso star is hitting it big (and is now on Shrinking). With that success, his unique corner of the recording studio has only found more success. And while the title of Goldstein’s show is pretty straightforward and self-explanatory, it has me hooked. I think it’s safe to say he’s just getting started.

At Your Service - Dua Lipa

While I haven’t actually listened to the singer and actress’ show, it may be the hidden gem on the list. Heading into her third season, she continues to host a slew of knockout guests, and her collection of candid conversations runs the gamut of interesting fare. Everything from psychedelics to running Apple.

Getting Better With Jonathan Van Ness - Jonathan Van Ness

Ever since being introduced as the current generation’s hair & grooming lead on Queer Eye, JVN has been stealing the show as they help build up others. By natural curiosity and the drive to learn, the Getting Better podcast helps them grow and build spaces to learn even more. The weekly episodic content comes in all shapes and sizes–from finance lessons to discourse on culture, they’ve got it covered.

Why Won’t You Date Me? - Nicole Byer

The Nailed It! host is also a pro-podcaster. If you go looking for Byer’s love and relationship pod, you may find quite a slew aside from the aforementioned one (Best Friends!, 90 Day Bae and Newcomers). But this humorously titled one is the most well-known and long-standing one, where she has everyone from friends and experts to an occasional ex or two dish all about dating and love.

Lovett Or Leave It - Jon Lovett

While Jon Lovett’s beginnings aren’t traditional Hollywood standards material, the comedian was a former speech writer for Barack Obama. From there, he and fellow Obama peers (Dan Pfeiffer, Tommy Vietor and Jon Favreau–not to be confused with the A-lister) then co-hosted Pod Save America. His newest show is a hybrid of political news mixed with fun, well-known guests, and a bit of shenanigans all tied into one, always providing a laugh.

The Bald And The Beautiful - Trixie Mattel And Katya Zamolodchikova

One of RuPaul’s Drag Race’s biggest winners, Trixie and ride or die fellow queen, Katya, have taken the world by storm together. After meeting on season 7, they quickly went on their way to make creative projects together, starting with their viral cult followed series, UNHhhh, to their aptly titled pod. It’s a lot of the same banter, just funneled into discussing pop culture and Tinseltown-leaning topics.

Spoilers ahead for the You series finale for anyone who hasn't yet watched with a Netflix subscription.

After five seasons, stalker drama You has finally come to an end on Netflix’s 2025 schedule. The fifth and final season of You took things back to New York, where it all began, as those closest to Joe were plotting to finally take him down. Penn Badgley previously explained why Joe’s ending was an appropriate one, but I just found out it could have been completely different, and I’m so glad they changed it.

At the end of the series finale, Joe was found guilty of the murders of Guinevere Beck and Love Quinn, and he was sentenced to spend the rest of his life in jail. Truly, the darkest ending he could have gotten, knowing that he is going to be alone. He won’t see his son anymore, he won’t set his sights on someone new. However, co-showrunner Justin W. Lo told The Post that his relationship with new love interest and Beck defender Bronte could have been a lot more fatal:

Lo did add that the ghost ending was a “very early iteration,” but it is interesting to hear what could have happened. How early in the show Bronte could have killed Joe is unknown, as it wasn’t discovered until about halfway through that she’s only been catfishing him to get Beck justice. Whether it could have happened during their standoff in the woods in the series finale is hard to tell.

Even though it would have made things completely different, I’m glad it didn’t happen since Joe definitely deserves to be alone for the rest of his life. Killing him off would just be too easy. Surprisingly, though, the ending that stuck didn’t come about until much later, as showrunner and executive producer Michael Foley shared:

Foley also explained that they thought the death would be “too easy” of an ending, and I can’t say I disagree. He added that they liked putting him in a “veritable cage [in prison]” and “now knowing the tough of a lover.” Anyone who has seen You knows that Joe craves attention and touch. He’s locked several people in the big glass cage, ahd has been locked in it himself. It really only makes sense that he winds up in a cage by the series’ end for the rest of his life. At the very least, Joe was getting letters from psychotic fans of his in prison, so not all is lost for him.

While some people may have mixed feelings about You’s final season and how Joe’s ending came to be, it was certainly an entertaining one. And despite the book-to-screen adaptation not really following the Caroline Kepnes books after the first season, it certainly kept viewers on their toes, and I already want to rewatch the show in its entirety.

Spoilers lie ahead for You’s series finale. If you aren't there yet, you should definitely hop into one of our other articles. You are welcome.

After an excruciatingly long wait, the fifth and final season of You has finally landed on the 2025 TV schedule for Netflix subscription holders. Unsurprisingly, the season is downright nuts. It introduces a new love interest for Penn Badgley’s Joe Goldberg, who ultimately winds up being the key to finally giving Joe what he truly deserves. Although I do have some mixed feelings about the final season, Badgley explained why the series finale was an appropriate end, and I agree with him.

Throughout Season 5 of the stalker drama, Joe tries to live a new life but, of course, different variables keep getting in the way, like his past coming back to haunt him and more people seeking to expose him.

By the series finale, Joe is finally caught and sentenced to prison on many, many counts for the murders of Beck and Love. He’ll be spending the rest of his life in prison, and Badgley told EW why it was the appropriate end for him, despite a number of viewers wanting him to be killed:

Obviously, it would have been easier to kill Joe, whether he was shot by Bronte in the woods or in some other fashion. However, the Gossip Girl alum makes a good point. Not only was justice finally served for Beck and Love after all these years, but Joe now has to spend the rest of his life alone. He always searches for the next person to fixate on, hence the entire plot of the show. With that, him now not having anyone kind of human connection, except for the deranged fan letters he’s been getting in prison, is certainly poetic and feels like a long time coming.

What It Felt Like To Get To The End Of You As A Fan

For fans, there was no way of knowing how You would end. Despite it being a loose book-to-screen adaptation of Caroline Kepnes' novel series, the show diverted from the books following the first season, keeping fans on their toes in the process. Like Badgley said, not everyone is going to be satisfied with the ending, but I was satisfied knowing what Joe is going to endure in prison is a whole lot worse for him than just being sentenced to death.

That aside, You’s final season brought back some familiar faces, but, unfortunately, series alum Jenna Ortega was not one of them. After starring in the second season as Ellie Alves, Ortega never returned. There was some hope that Ortega could return, and she previously expressed her disappointment about not being able to appear in the fourth season due to her Wednesday filming schedule. The creators still had ideas for her return, and I’m so sad they couldn't be used.

When a show nears its end, it's common that viewers hope the main character gets their due in one way or another. If you ask me, You certainly dished out a worthy fate for Joe, and I'm glad how his ending panned out. While I'm also sad the show is over, I look forward to rewatching the journey from the beginning.

SPOILERS are ahead for You Season 5, now streaming for Netflix subscribers.

You Season 5 has just dropped this week, which means one of the best shows to binge-watch on Netflix has finally ended after seven years. While the fifth season includes all sorts of cameos of actors from past seasons, prepare to be disappointed if you’re hoping for the return of Jenna Ortega’s Ellie Alves like we were. Ortega was busy filming Wednesday, but the creators did share they had a return originally in mind for her character.

When Jenna Ortega didn’t return for Season 4 of You, the actress shared she was both "devastated" and “bummed out” she couldn’t play Ellie again due to her Wednesday shooting schedule, and apparently that happened again for the last season. As You showrunner Michael Foley told Business Insider:

Despite Jenna Ortega never making it on You following her Season 2 run, the showrunners did have an idea about how Ellie could return if it wasn’t for Wednesday getting in the way. They told the publication that Ellie would have probably come back on board to be a benefactor to Dominique and Phoenix, who work throughout Season 5 to get Penn Badgley’s Joe behind bars and are successful. Foley also said this:

While it sounds like the showrunners were crafting up a way that would put Ellie in opposition with Joe by the end of the show, co-showrunner Justin W. Lo also had this thought during the interview regarding Ortega’s character:

When Jenna Ortega originally appeared on You for Season 2, the actress was 16 years old during filming and hadn’t yet broken out with her bigger roles in Scream or Wednesday, which both came out in 2022. In the role, she played Joe’s neighbor when he moved from New York to Los Angeles for a fresh start. They ended up becoming close acquaintances, and Joe developed a soft spot for her. However, Ellie’s older sister is in fact murdered by Joe’s love interest that season, Victoria Pedretti’s Love Quinn.

Ellie’s involvement with You ended on a positive note with Joe sending her money to move to Florida, but in the years since her last appearance, it’s possible she could have put together that Joe was somewhat involved and worked with Dominique and Phoenix to take him down. It definitely would have added layers to the final season, which gave us mixed feelings, but oh well! We can look forward to Jenna Ortega returning to Wednesday when the second season premieres on August 2, 2025.

It’s been over two years since we've seen Joe Goldberg stalk and kill on the popular thriller You, and with the series coming to an end in 2025, fans are more than ready for that fifth and final season to hit the Netflix schedule. Penn Badgley’s character will have a new love interest this season — Bronte, played by Madeline Brewer — and the actress is already clapping back at critics who are comparing her to Joe’s wives, women and victims who came before.

You is one of the best shows to binge on Netflix, with all four seasons available to stream with a Netflix subscription, but if you’ve forgotten how Season 4 ended, Joe moved back to New York with now-wife Kate (Charlotte Ritchie). However, we all know the stalker has never let a little thing like a wife keep him from seeking out new interests. This season, that comes in the form of Bronte, and Madeline Brewer said some fans have been pretty nasty about her casting. She told Vanity Fair:

It’s one thing to compare two fictional characters on a TV show, but when you start getting into their physical appearances, then you’re really pitting real women against each other, and I’m glad Madeline Brewer spoke up for herself.

When the series picks back up on the 2025 TV schedule, we’ll meet Bronte, who is described as an enigmatic and free-spirited playwright who works for an allegedly reformed Joe (heard that one before). Madeline Brewer admits Bronte is “frustrating and utterly captivating all at once,” and she knows her character is going to rub people the wrong way. She continued:

It’s great to come across a character we love to hate — just look at how much we like Joe, who is actually a repulsive human being — and Madeline Brewer is prepared for some Bronte backlash. It sounds like she’s in a really good state of mind to handle the more toxic faction of the You fanbase; it’s just a shame that she has to.

You Season 4 left us with lots of questions, and fans can’t help but wonder which characters from the past might resurface now that Joe is back in the States. Luckily we don’t have to wait long to find out. You Season 5 will be available to stream in full on Netflix starting Thursday, April 24.

Fans have been waiting for the fifth and final season of You, one of the best shows on Netflix, and it’s now close to dropping amid the 2025 TV schedule. Penn Badgley’s Joe Goldberg is set to return for his last hurrah in April, and Cardi B is one of the many who’s excited. That shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to those who are aware of the rapper’s fandom. It’s her massive level of adoration for the show that’s caused her to be linked to Badgley. Now, it seems a social media user chronicled that saga – minute details and all.

Penn Badgley (Unknowingly) Initiated This Unlikely Bond, And A Sweet Social Media Interaction Eventually Followed

Some may still find it somewhat funny or random that the Gossip Girl alum and the “WAP” performer would become fast friends. But their bond actually came about quite naturally, if you can believe it. Per @cardibchartdata, this started in earnest in 2019 while You’s leading man was promoting the second season of the show. While relating the state of social media to Joe’s exploits on the hit drama series, the star shouted out Cardi B (via a video posted by @myxglobal on X) for having such an “authentic” relationship with her followers.

In 2021, the Grammy-winning rapper caught wind of the fact that Penn Badgley knew just who she was and enthusiastically posted about it on X. Check out the humorously enthusiastic way she responded:

That post was retweeted by the veteran actor himself, who expressed his feeling of starstruck with a brief message. On top of that, the two stars also changed their respective profile pics on X (then known as Twitter) to snapshots of each other. All in all, the gestures and exchanges alone are incredibly sweet, but there’s more to the story, which is even more involved than I’d even realized.

Netflix Eventually Entered The Chat As Well

What helped legitimize the unlikely, but lovely, Badgley/Cardi friendship was the eventual response from the service that houses You. Considering how much Netflix subscription holders seemed to be enjoying the back-and-forth between the two stars and caused it to trend on Twitter, it was probably a given that the streamer would take notice. Ahead of Season 4, the streamer made a note in its Twitter bio in support of Cardi appearing on the show. Badgley also gifted the songstress some sweet gear and an eerie letter from “Joe”:

Following all of that, both Penn Badgley and Cardi B addressed their newfound link in separate interviews. Badgley appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2021, and he lauded Cardi and expressed his hope for her to appear on the show. Also, while speaking with 106.7 FM Los Angeles, the “Bongos” performer also spoke about her love for Badgley and, when asked about guest-starring on the series, she merely said she’d love to “kill” someone.

How Cardi B Was Nodded To In Season 4 And Where Things Stand With Season 5

Unfortunately, when the fourth season arrived, the Hustlers alum didn’t make an appearance. However, her hit song, “I Like It,” was added to the season premiere, as it plays over a scene that sees Joe dismembering a body. So, even though the rapper doesn’t actually appear, her presence is still felt.

So, with the fifth season on the way, some may wonder whether Cardi B might actually show up amid the show’s final episodes. That remains to be seen but, as noted by @cardibchartdata, the starlet was recruited by Netflix to film a reaction to the new You trailer. Check it out:

First and foremost, God bless @cardibchartdata for making the effort to piece together the friendship between Penn Badgley and Cardi B. What their connection speaks to is the power of social media and positive fandom. I also appreciate the fact that Cardi isn’t afraid to get excited about other actors (as was the case when she fangirled over Robert Pattinson). One can only hope the fan-favorite musical artist appears alongside Badgley during Season 6 and, if not, I just hope this kinship endures for years to come.

You Season 5 finally drops April 24 as part of the 2025 Netflix schedule. While you wait for it, you can prepare yourself for Joe’s send-off by streaming the first four seasons now.

While it might not be the case these days, there was a time when heels reigned supreme, when headbands were en vogue when necklaces were large and dresses and skirts were preppy. That time is encapsulated in the looks from Gossip Girl, the svelte Upper East Side of New York-set drama that aired on the CW between 2007 and 2012.

While Leighton Meester’s Blair Waldorf was the most popular dresser of the bunch, over the course of six seasons, a lot of the celebrity fashion worn in the show were outfits that were way ahead of their time or timeless and it was devastating when Gossip Girl ended and we had to say goodbye to the looks. Without further ado, here’s some great ones that still hold up.

Blair Waldorf’s Black Opening Episode Dress (Season 1, Episode 1)

Gossip Girl first introduces us to Blair at a party with her mother. She’s allegedly wearing one of Eleanor’s designs, but it's actually a sweet Ann Sui look that was ahead of its time. Plus, black has always and will always hold up. You know you love it.

Serena’s Very Best Gold Dress (Season 5, Episode 9)

While Serena van der Woodsen wears a lot of gold and yellow throughout Gossip Girl, hands down her best number was in Season 5, Episode 9 when she rocks a gold, vintage-looking Diane Von Furstenberg dress. Her teased hair really amps her look up even more.

Chuck Bass' Bejeweled Formal Look (Season 2, Episode 12)

While the ladies of Gossip Girl get most of the notice, we'd be remiss if Chuck Bass didn't make this list at least a few times. Of all the men on the show, Bass has a personal sense of style that is memorable without being tacky. This jacket from Season 2 is probably the best example of how standout his formalwear really was.

Vanessa's Gorgeous Twist Front Dress (Season 3, Episode 5)

There was no shortage of gorgeous ball gowns worn during Gossip Girl's six-season run, but my favorite of all of them was the ballgown worn by Jessica Szohr in Season 3 during an Old Hollywood dream sequence Blair has. Wildly, Vanessa is one of my least favorite dressers on the series, but this Reem Acra look is still fire and would fit so many body types.

Serena Van Der Woodsen's Flared Pink Pants (Season 4, Episode 1)

A tailored pant is a girl's best friend, and this lovely look from Serena van der Woodsen combines my two favorite things: comfort and Barbiecore fashion. Pants like these have made a resurgence, but they'll never not be a classic look.

Blair Waldorf's First Wedding Dress (Season 5, Episode 13) 

Of all the iconic outfits from the series, the most standout and memorable seemingly has to go to Blair's white wedding dress. The lace overlay and pretty bow in front give the dress an extra edge, but it's certainly a situation where the real party is in the back. This storyline didn't end so hot, but the dress is still a stunner.

Serena Van Der Woodsen's Caged Dress (Season 4, Episode 1) 

There are a slew of outfits shown from Blair and Serena's time in France thanks to a killer montage at the beginning of Season 4, and all of them are top notch. I still want this cage corset dress from George Chakra couture that's covered in Swarovski crystals. Because Swarovski crystals will always make everything better.

Blair's Floral Dress (Season 4, Episode 1) 

Want to know what to wear to a museum? Try a floral chiffon number like the one Blair Waldorf rocks that is flowy and ahead of its time. Particularly given she wore it with a notable and gorgeous pearl choker that will always be a work of art.

Jenny Humphrey's Goth Girl Meets Prep (Season 2, Episode 14)

Part of the fun of early episodes of Gossip Girl happens when the ladies level up the school uniform look. Jenny's got her crossover tie on with a black peacoat here, but the really chic look is the pink tulle under her plaid skirt coupled with a pair of timeless boots. It's school girl up top and punk rock on bottom.

Redemption For Vanessa’s Snowflake Ball Dress (Season 2, Episode 12)

I love the rope detailing in the shoulder of Vanessa’s dress from Season 2's Snowflake Ball. If you’ve seen the series, you know the dress would ultimately be ridiculed by pretty much everyone after a light revealed it to be made of thinner material than expected, but as we all know, Vanessa's sheer take on fashion would be right on trend years later. It helps the simple silhouette could fit in any time and place, too.

Chuck Bass In His Gordon Gekko Era (Season 3, Episode 1)

Chuck Bass never shied away from color during Gossip Girl, but his suspendered Gordon Gekko era in Season 3 is really when his fashion takes a step forward. Intriguingly the '80s vibes may have come from Mr. Bass wanting to emanate his dad when he took over his company, but it's certainly a look he owns.

Blair's Famous Photoshoot Dress (Season 1, Episode 4) 

Serena and Blair frequently have a friendship rife with tension, but in Season 1 things are particularly awkward. You can see the foundations of the friendship during Episode 4, in which Serena pitches Blair for a photoshoot for her mom Eleanor's fashion brand, then helps Blair to have fun in the gorgeous black and yellow floral dress so the pictures come out great.

Nate Archibald Untucked, Untied And A Little Askew (All Seasons)

Outside of Nate Archibald wearing fine quality clothing, there isn't a ton to remark about his look. Except he nearly always wears it a bit askew. Tie undone, shirt untucked, a couple of buttons loose at the top. The look's a keeper, but perhaps none is better than the loose tie with the school uniform.

Lily's Strong-Shouldered Black Dress (Season 4, Episode 18)  

An RM by Roland Mouret special, this gorgeous black look worn by Serena's mother is one of many black dresses she wore during the run of the show. They're all elegant, but the way this dress is tailored makes it standout no matter what year we're living in.

Serena's Sparkly Mini Skirt And Sweater Combo (Season 5, Episode 12)

One thing Serena does well that not everyone can pull off is mix patterns and prints. Some of her outfits are really out there, and some of them stand out in the perfect way, like her sequined mini skirt and sequined sweater paired with a neutral black coat and brown bag in Season 5. I'd still wear this (though maybe with a flat shoe).

Blair's Sparkly Dress And Headband (Season 6, Episode 5)

There's no dearth of beautiful ballgowns in Gossip Girl, but this sparkly floor-length look kicks things up a notch via its bold accessories. That headband! Those startling earrings! This was the era of extra, and Blair wears it well.

Lily Dives Into Prints! (Season 5, Episode 4)

Satins and the color black are what Lily favors the majority of the time, but every now and again she'll dive into print and color in a satisfying way and this is one of my favorite examples. The white earrings with the yellow pop add the perfect extra touch.

Blair's Colored Tights (Many Eps, But This One's Season 1, Episode 15)

Rocking red tights with a bright yellow coat from Ralph Lauren should not work, but pairing it with a cute, preppy collared blouse and a neutral bag really made Blair Waldorf pop. Colored tights should always be a wardrobe staple, though I recognize they come in and out.

Jenny Embraces The Dark Side (Season 3, Episode 4)

Jenny wears a lot of black when she starts coming into her own at Constance Billiard in Season 3, but this bubble skirt and black jacket combo is among my favorites. If she'd thrown in her signature fishnets it would have been perfect.

Georgina Rocks A Purple Dress (Season 2, Episode 23)

Georgina was typically seen in signature black and other dark tones, but appearing in Season 2, she wore a sweet textured purple dress with a chain at her belly. The hardware is a nice touch and helps the dress to stand out as something a little different.

Serena's Grey Coat And Cashmere Gloves (Season 3, Episode 13)

Early on, most of the coats we see Serena in are leather, but by Season 3 she's playing around with her look a bit more. This is one of the rare times we see Serena in more of a neutral, pastel palette and it looks great on her.

Dan And Serena At Blair's Wedding (Season 5, Episode 13)

This one's really a two-fer and it's mostly because this gossamer look is perfect for Serena and one of the rare occasions Dan is fully dressed to the nines. A three-piece suit for Dan! Headwear for Serena! The best part for me though is that you could see either of these looks at a wedding today and they'd still be posh.

Jenny's Goth Formalwear (Season 3, Episode 9) 

I know people love early seasons, but I'm kind of starting to feel like Season 3 may have been peak Gossip Girl fashion, as this formalwear look from Jenny with the puffed out skirt and red lip is so pretty and edgy at the same time. It helps she has Nate Archibald as an accessory too.

Blair's Finale Wedding Dress (Season 6, Episode 10)

A lot of fans are partial to Serena's gold dress in the Gossip Girl finale, but I've always loved Blair's ice queen dress more. And the headband! It's sort of giving Downton Abbey and I'll forever love that Leighton Meester's character ended on this note.

Juliet Goes Gossamer (Season 4, Episode 8)

Most of the best looks on Gossip Girl decidedly don't go to the b-tier characters, but this look from Juliet trumps both Blair and Serena's look in the same scene. (Blair has a kind of cool backless halter dress on, but it's nothing special, and Serena's beaded number feels like it ages her up quite a bit.) Katie Cassidy's gossamer dress is timeless and I still think about the asymmetrical hemline.

Serena's Yale Outfit (Season 2, Episode 6)

Serena does casual better than anyone else on Gossip Girl (my apologies to Vanessa, who is casual more often). Probably because she's so upscale without seeming to be trying. I've never seen a blazer as unique as the one she wore to the Yale campus in Season 2. She paired the look with jeans and the perfect bag and riding boots. Want.

Blair's Green Dress Season 5, Episode 1

I've always kind of felt Blair's green dress in the opening episode of Season 5 is a showstopper that doesn't get enough time to shine. I don't see people talk about it much, probably because Serena's California storyline takes over in the episode, but I still think it's a showstopper.

Ivy's Flapper Dress (Season 5, Episode 7)

Ivy wears a lot of flowy outfits that look dated years later, but on the night of the masked event she pulls out all the stops in a sparkly flapper dress with floral detailing on the lower half. The silhouette won't work for everyone, but it sure is stunning to look at.

Chuck's Animal Print Collar (Season 5, Episode 12)

One of Chuck's more subtle-yet-unusual looks came in Season 5. He traipsed around the streets of New York in what at first glance seems to be a pretty demure grey suit with a semi-unexpected brown vest with it. But if you look at the collar of his suit coat, you'll see Chuck Bass at his finest: animal print.

Diana's Yellow Dress (Season 5, Episode 4)

Before this moment, I would have argued Serena is the queen of the yellow dress. But Liz Hurley's brief foray into the world of Gossip Girl is full of fitted sheath looks that still look on trend. This one's a keeper.

Serena's Marilyn Monroe Nod (Season 5. Episode 13)

Lots of people have nodded at Marilyn Monroe's famous dress from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, including Margot Robbie channeling Monroe as Harley Quinn. But something about Blake Lively in the look feels like real theater, in a good way. It's timeless, pink, and best of all, dripping with jewels.

Jenny's Marchesa Moment (Season 3, Episode 20)

Little Jenny Humphrey mostly attempted a punk rock or at least edgy look during the course of the show, but somehow she made a mint number from Marchesa look cool before her big child star exit form Hollywood. The brand was popular during the show's run, and while it's less popular today, I still wouldn't be mad if I had this on a hanger.

In the recently wrapped season of The Boys, we saw new Supe Sister Sage lobotomizing herself in order to dumb down to The Deep’s level. Oh how things have changed for Chace Crawford over the past decade and a half. Back in 2007 he had Blake Lively and Leighton Meester fighting over his character on Gossip Girl. Obviously that’s far from the only difference between the hyper-violent superhero series and the CW teen drama, but Crawford seems to think there’s some room for overlap. In fact, he said two of his former co-stars would make great additions to The Boys cast.

Talking to People at Comic-Con, Chace Crawford who plays The Deep on The Boys (available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription), revealed which of Nate Archibald’s fellow St. Jude alumni he’d like to see join the cast of The Boys Season 5, and hopefully showrunner Eric Kripke is taking notes. Crawford said:

As someone who got completely sucked into Gossip Girl’s scandalous high school drama back in the day, I couldn’t agree more that Ed Westwick and Penn Badgley would be able to hold their own in Eric Kripke’s universe of maniacal Supes and the vigilantes determined to stop them.

Ed Westwick’s Chuck Bass was already three-quarters of the way to evil, especially in the early days, when his first encounter with Taylor Momsen’s Jenny Humphrey wasn’t unlike The Deep’s first meeting with Erin Moriarty’s Starlight, if you know what I mean. Chace Crawford even had an idea of what kind of Supe Westwick could play, saying:

The Boys Season 4 already gave us a pretty disturbing Batman spoof via Tek Knight and his BDSM batcave, but I agree that Ed Westwick would be best as a dark and brooding counterpart to the ostentatious Homelander or Season 4 newbie Firecracker. In fact, Chuck Bass and Firecracker would be quite the dynamic duo.

The Deep actor didn’t give any specific ideas for who Penn Badgley could play, but after seeing him as Dan Humphrey for six seasons, we found out just how manipulative he could be when it was revealed in the series finale that “Lonely Boy” had been Gossip Girl all along. Come to think of it, maybe “Lonely Boy” wouldn’t be the worst Supe name. I’m sure Eric Kripke could come up with some uber-depressing lore for that. And we know Badgley is capable of playing the bad guy, thanks to his turn as serial killer Joe Goldberg on Netflix’s You.

Although it's probably a long shot, I’d be down for this Gossip Girl reunion when The Boys returns for its final season, and Eric Kripke himself has said he has very little shame about finding parts to stick people into. (That came out wrong … or did it?)

You can relive Chace Crawford’s days as Nate on Gossip Girl by streaming the series with a Max subscription, or catch up on The Boys on Amazon Prime Video, another of the best streaming services.

Considered both one of Emma Stone’s best movies and one of the best rom-coms of all time, Easy A is a 2010s classic! These days, we adore Stone for her “hilarious and “raunchy” performance in Poor Things and her Oscar-winning role in La La Land. However, before all that, she proved herself as a wonderfully unique leading lady in Will Gluck’s wildly creative 2010 coming-of-age flick.

So, in honor of this hilarious and heartfelt film about a high school student named Olive to tried to take advantage of the rumors swirling around about her, let’s chat about ten moments from Easy A that are still perfect.  

Olive’s Opening Monologue 

Easy A opens with Olive explaining her journey on a livestream that we later find out is happening after all the events of the film. This opening scene, where she holds up a piece of paper that titles this stories’ first of five chapters shows how intelligent and funny she is and it sets the tone for the entire movie, which is made up of the following chapters: 

1. “The Shudder-Inducing-and-Clichéd, However-Totally-False Account Of How I Lost My Virginity To A Guy At A Community College.” 
2. “The Accelerated Velocity of Terminological Inexactitude.” 
3. “A Lady's Choice and a Gentleman's Agreement.”  
4. “How I, Olive Penderghast, Went From Assumed Trollop To an Actual HomeWrecker.” 
5. “Not With a Whimper But With a Bang.”  

Overall, her voice-over is wonderful, and it makes her voice and personality shine. Plus it really helps us understand what she’s going through in a sincere yet hilarious way. This along with the moments within these chapters is why Easy A got such good reviews and why it still holds up.

The Pocket Full Of Sunshine Card Montage 

There are so many songs that make me think of a specific movie scene, but one of the most iconic is the “Pocket Full of Sunshine” scene in Easy A. Seeing Stone jam out to the tune via a birthday card is seriously hilarious, and her evolution from hating it to loving it is the best, you can’t help but smile through the whole moment: 

Honestly, I totally get why this “Pocket Full of Sunshine” scene went viral so many years later, it’s flawless. 

Olive’s Parents Try To Guess Why She Got In Trouble

Can we all agree that Olive’s parents are the best? Played by Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson, Dill and Rosemary are legit cool parents who, for the most part, are very supportive of their daughter. 

Even when she gets in trouble at school for calling a classmate a mean name, her parents aren’t really mad. In fact, they just want to know what she said. When Olive says it starts with a “T” they proceed to guess, but can’t get it, and tell her to spell it with her peas. Then, they hilariously threaten her saying she can’t have supper, even though she literally just ate.

Overall, Dill and Rosemary are icons, and parents of the year in my mind. 

Olive’s First Deal With Brandon

When Olive’s fake “gentleman caller” Brandon shows up at her house to propose this deal, her parents are hilariously baffled, going back and forth saying “A boy?” “A boy.” three times. Then, the process of planning this deception gets going. Brandon, who is gay, asked Olive to have fake sex with him, so people at school would get off his back. 

This leads to them going to a party together, where they have the loudest fake sex ever. If you want to see commitment to a bit that’s all about faking a bit, this scene is the best example. It’s over the top, awkward and hilarious. It also helps the ultimate storyline get going as Olive agrees to help more guys by pretending to have sex with them. 

Olive Embraces The A, And She Starts Making Deals

One of the most iconic moments in this film comes when Olive transforms and embraces the rumors and starts rocking the A at school. In the spirit of The Scarlet Letter, Emma Stone’s character decides to reclaim the narrative surrounding her, and she switches up her style and starts making deals with guys.

From Home Depot gift cards to a Bed Bath and Beyond coupon and more, Olive is paid in odd ways, and her reactions to it all are priceless. Truly, this is a magnificent and hilarious montage. 

Marianne Screams About Her Boyfriend Having Chlamydia While A Grease Song Plays In The Background

Olive’s plan goes a little too far when Marianne’s boyfriend blames her for his Chlamydia (which he actually got from sleeping with the guidance counselor). While this moment is what causes the ultimate conflict in the film, the way it’s presented is hilarious and incredibly creative. 

This is because as the news travels that Marianne’s boyfriend has Chlamydia, “We Go Together” from Grease is playing in the background. Then, when Amanda Bynes' character finds out about it she screams “CHLAMYDIA!” into the phone in the high school office, and that’s immediately followed by “Wop ba-ba lu-mop and wop bam boom!” 

Olive Goes From Church To Chruch Trying To Confess 

In what starts as an emotional scene, Olive goes to a church to confess about everything that’s happened. However, it quickly turns hysterical when she realizes the priest isn’t in the confession box, and she proceeds to run to church after church trying to find someone to hear her out. 

The real kicker though was when she finally found someone (who was brilliantly played by Fred Armisen), he also happened to be Marianne’s father. This caused Olive to understandably freak out. 

Todd Gives Olive A Ride Home, And She Tells Him Why They Can’t Kiss

After Todd raps a happy birthday song while wearing a lobster hat (how endearing!), and Olive gets away from her terrible date (how horrific!), he offers to give her a ride home. On the drive, Olive cries her heart out, and she tells Todd what she’s been doing. Like the kind king he is, he doesn’t judge, and he supports her.

However, when he asks if he can kiss her if he promises to not tell anyone, Olive turns it down. Not because she’s not into him, but because she wants their first kiss to be perfect. It’s a vulnerable scene that goes from sad to sweet, and it really lets the heart of this film shine.  

Olive Performs ‘Knock On Wood’ 

In an effort to get people to tune into her confessional livestream (and because she wanted a “musical number for no apparent reason”), Olive put on a performance at the school’s pep rally with the help of Woodchuck Todd and the pep band. She, of course, sang “Knock On Wood,” which was apparently the band’s “sexiest song in their repertoire,” and she was clearly having a blast. 

Olive Gets Her ‘80s Movie Ending

Earlier in the film, right after she starts making all these deals, Olive says she wants John Cusack to hold a boombox up to her window, or to ride off on a lawnmower with Patrick Dempsey or Judd Nelson throwing his fist in the air for her or Jake from Sixteen Candles waiting for her. Well, she got all of that when Todd showed up at her house with his lawnmower at the end of her livestream. 

Overall, it was a triumphant and sweet ending, that also paid homage to all the classic ‘80s movies Olive loves. It was an excellent way to bring this incredibly creative and witty film to an end, by turning four rom-com romantic gestures into one massive one. 

From beginning to end, Easy A is a wonderfully funny time, and it’s a comedy that’s also full of heart. Emma Stone’s work as Olive is next level, and as her career has progressed, it’s so fun to go back and see one of the films that kicked it all off and reflect on the perfect moments within it.  

Money was no object for the teens growing up on the Upper East Side of New York City on the 2007 CW hit Gossip Girl. Every opportunity was available to Nate Archibald, and only the finest of clothing, liquor and women would suit Chuck Bass. On the other hand, Chase Crawford and Ed Westwick — the young actors portraying the privileged high-schoolers — apparently did not have the same experience. Crawford opened up about the early days of the six-season teen drama, and the reality for him and his co-star was definitely not as luxe as what we saw for their characters.

Nate and Chuck were best friends on the series that made household names of actors like Chace Crawford and Blake Lively, and the actors seemed to be pretty close outside of the show, as well, as Crawford and Ed Westwick shared an apartment back when they were cast for Gossip Girl. But instead of lavish apartments with a plentiful staff and trust funds, the guys chose to get a place together to offset the cost of living in NYC. On Podcrushed, which is co-hosted by fellow Gossip Girl alum Penn Badgley, The Boys actor recalled: 

I can imagine it was probably a relief for both of the actors to have someone to help share those costs for rent and food, as Chace Crawford has admitted to eating “like crap” back then, since it was before they were known as two of the most popular students at St. Jude’s. Especially Ed Westwick, who was traveling to a new country for the job, it sounds like Chace Crawford’s family made it really easy on him, even if he didn’t get to actually see the place they picked out before moving in. 

They still needed a bit of help getting started, though, as the Nate portrayer continued:

No bed? No problem! Ed Westwick had a roof over his head that he may not have been able to afford otherwise. Who cares if he had to (temporarily, I’m sure) sleep on his suitcase? 

While Nate borrowing money from his dad was a move I'm sure the character was familiar with, I’m sure Mr. Archibald never saw it paid back, and I shudder to think about what Chuck would say about not getting to weigh in on any new digs before moving in. I’m sure it wasn’t long, though, before the Gossip Girl cast members — who also included Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley and Taylor Momsen — started earning enough to upgrade a little, or at least pay off anything they had borrowed. 

If you want to see what all the Gossip Girl hype was about, all six seasons are available to stream with a Max subscription, as well as both seasons of the 2021 reboot of the same name. 

There are numerous Seinfeld scenes viewers can still recall to this day. However, there is one scene that continues to live on in memes and viral videos – the infamous Elaine dance. Fans can thank the comedic timing of Julia Louis-Dreyfus for making the scene what it was. She may have moved on to many notable TV roles, but the sequence has continued to follow her. There have been multiple fans – famous or not – who’ve imitated the iconic dance. Now, You star Penn Badgley has joined in the fun by doing the Elaine dance for Louis-Dreyfus. And this has me (and probably others) wondering when the comic might do an impression of Badgley's famous character, Joe.

Penn Badgley took the chance to show off his best Elaine moves in front of its originator since the Seinfeld alum was guesting on his podcast Podcrushed. And thankfully, the Netflix star decided to share the meta-moment with fans by posting the funny moment on his TikTok account. Of course, Badgley did his best to impress the multi-Emmy winner, but it was Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ reaction that stole the show. Check out the unexpected duo’s exchange in the hilarious post below:

The leading man proved once again his off-beat humor belongs on a sitcom or mockumentary after You’s fifth and final season airs on Netflix. He captured every Elaine movement with little effort. Of course, the cherry on top was seeing Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ face, as she seemingly came off as annoyed by Badgley’s spot-on moves. The Veep star has probably seen enough impressions to last her a lifetime, but she was definitely a good sport to participate in the Gossip Girl alum’s post.

Like many Seinfeld fans, Penn Badgley has probably seen the iconic scene a million times. The unforgettable jig made waves when the Season 8 episode “The Little Kicks” debuted in 1996. Now, you can see how Badgley's rendition compares to the original version by checking out the clip below:

After watching the original Elaine dance scene and Penn Badgley’s impression, you have to wonder: Where is Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ take on the beloved serial killer? She could totally channel one of Joe’s many viral monologues from the hit Netflix drama. Just imagine the Old Christine alum hiding behind a bookcase or staring stone-cold into a camera. It would be great to see the talented actress channel her inner psychopath in a hilarious video. Maybe if Badgley pops up on the comedic actress’ podcast, Wiser Than Me, at some point, they can collaborate on another social media post. I don't know about you, but I think such a thing could go viral like this current clip has.

In the meantime, you can check out every season of Seinfeld by watching it with an active Netflix subscription. And stay on the streamer to catch up on the first four seasons of You before Penn Badgley’s murderous heartthrob Joe returns for the final season. Fans can also catch Julia Louis-Dreyfus in the critically-maligned You People, which is available on the streamer as well.

Jenna Ortega has become quite the star in the last year, primarily because of her viral performance in Wednesday, but also because she has appeared in other massive projects like Scream, X and the upcoming Scream VI. However, this expanding filmography and growing demand has made it hard for her to go back to the projects she did when she was coming up, like You. Many were hopeful the young actress would return as Ellie in Season 4 of Penn Badgley’s successful series, however, even though she was invited, she couldn’t come back. Now, the actress is getting honest about why she wasn’t able to return to You, and how she feels about potentially reprising her role. 

Ortega was confronted about not returning for You’s fourth season, and said she would have loved to, however, Wednesday got in the way. She explained her reasoning to ET, saying:

The actress was filming Wednesday all the way in Romania when she got the invite, and since that series was in the middle of production, she wasn't able to come back to the thriller series. You’s showrunner Sera Gamble explained how they had asked the actress to come back for Season 4, and why she couldn't return, telling IndieWire:

Based on how Ellie’s story in Season 2, it’s entirely plausible for her to come back on the show. Ortega appeared in You as one of Joe’s neighbors in Los Angeles. She lived with her older sister Deliah, and while Ellie was warned to stay away from Penn Badgley’s character, they developed a friendship. In the end, Ortega’s character is almost sexually assaulted by Henderson, and Joe saves her. He tells her to get out of town after Love kills Deliah, and he supports her by occasionally sending her money. 

So, it makes sense that Ellie could come back, and considering it’s one of the nicer relationships on the show, it would be nice to see Jenna Ortega return to the You cast. However, considering her demand, and her ever-growing resume, she might be all booked up for the foreseeable future.  

Following the massive success of Wednesday, viral dance and fashion included, Ortega and co. will be returning for a second season of the Addams Family spin-off. On top of working on Season 2 of the Netflix hit, the actress has five other projects in the works, including the 2023 movie schedule’s Scream VI. It would be great if she could squeeze You into her busy schedule if it gets renewed for a fifth season, and with her love for the series and Ellie, it seems like she also wants to share the screen with Badgley again. 

While Ortega might not be in the next installment of You’s the fourth season when it drops on March 9, you will be able to catch her the next day when Scream VI hits theaters. You can also always go back and watch Jenna Ortega in You’s second season as well as the first season of Wednesday with a Netflix subscription.   

Warning! Spoilers ahead for Season 4 Part 1 of Netflix’s You. Read at your own risk!

Penn Badgley is back as Joe Goldberg in Season 4 Part 1 of the hit stalker drama You, and he’s taken things across the pond this time. However, now he’s the one being stalked and framed as he takes up the identity of professor Jonathan Moore, but his likes and dislikes are staying put. And that includes not really caring for Taylor Swift, which honestly, is probably a good thing. 

Penn Badgley revealed that when it comes to music, Taylor Swift is not particularly in Joe’s top 10 according to Variety. He has a good reason for why he thinks that way too, and it really does make sense when you think about it:

Considering Joe is basically annoyed any time anyone shows off or brags about how successful they are, it does make sense that he would feel the same way about celebrities, at least certain kinds of celebrities. Taylor Swift not being on Joe’s radar is a good thing because I can’t imagine what would happen if she caught his eye, and got stuck in his orbit.

While the discussion does seem a bit random, there’s a pretty good reason it was brought up. Penn Badgley directed the upcoming penultimate episode, titled “She’s Not There,” and it evidently has a reference to the record-breaking singer. Fans will remember that the Season 3 finale of You perfectly placed Swift and Bon Iver's duet “exile” at the end of the episode. If something similar like that happens again, it’s going to be another chilling yet beautiful scene, especially with Badgley directing it.

Something else that fans can look forward to in Season 4 Part 2 of You is the return of Love Quinn, Joe’s equally crazy ex-wife and baby mama. How and why she comes back is still a mystery. However, considering she wouldn’t be the first of Joe’s exes to come back from the dead, it wouldn’t be surprising if she survived getting poisoned and left in a burning house, all while a Taylor Swift song played in the background.

There are many questions for You Season 4 Part 2, now we can add this upcoming Taylor Swift reference to that list. Now that Joe’s stalker and the real Eat The Rich Killer have been revealed, the final five episodes of the season are going to be as intense as ever. Hopefully, a Season 5 of You happens so that craziness can continue, because it seems likely that the season is going to end on another cliffhanger. 

Season 4 Part 1 of You is streaming now with a Netflix subscription. Season 4 Part 2 will premiere on Thursday, March 9, so you'll be able to see this Taylor Swift reference soon. Also, be sure to check out CinemaBlend’s 2023 Netflix TV schedule to see what else is coming to the streamer soon.

Slight spoilers ahead for Season 4 Part 1 of You! Read with caution!

Penn Badgley has returned once again as the stalker Joe Goldberg on Season 4 of Netflix’s You. With the series turning the tables on Joe this time around, as he’s now the one being stalked as people left and right are being murdered in London, it's always coming up with something new for each season. However, showrunner Sera Gamble is opening up about the future of the series and how long she plans to keep Joe’s story going.

The Lifetime-turned-Netflix series has found great success on the streaming giant, which is just one of many of Penn Badgley’s projects that has gotten people hooked on him. With Season 4 Part 2 of the stalker drama set to premiere in March, Sera Gamble told THR her plans for a potential Season 5 and when fans could expect the series to come to a close:

Even though the cast of You has been killing it this season, I'd imagine there comes a point when it's time to say goodbye. However, with the way Season 4 has been going, there seems to still be a lot coming, and the fact that Sera Gamble has a plan for Season 5 is good news. So fans shouldn’t have to worry about Joe’s arc coming to an end any time soon. 

Meanwhile, this new format for You’s release could be the future of the series, depending on what happens in the future. Season 4 is split into two parts, with five episodes each, and while it seems like it’s a bit annoying, it works. Sera Gamble mentioned the advantages of having split seasons and how easy it was for her and Greg Berlanti to work around:

You is unpredictable, and it has been known to end on some cliffhangers. So, having a split anywhere in the middle of the season makes for some extra fun anticipation for the fans. Plus, by having an even number of episodes it seems to work out perfectly, as it gives fans more time to absorb everything they just watched in the first part while also keeping them on their toes until Part 2 arrives.

Season 4 of You has been more of a whodunnit so far, and following the reveal in Episode 5 of who is behind everything, it should be interesting to see what will happen in the second half of the season. Luckily since Sera Gamble seems to have more things planned, I don’t think fans have to worry about Joe just yet.

Watch Season 4 Part 1 of You now with a Netflix subscription. Part 2 will debut on Thursday, March 9, and based on Gamble's comments it seems like there might be another season or two in the future. Also, check out the Netflix 2023 TV schedule to see what else is coming to the streamer this year.

Audiences were introduced to Penn Badgley’s uber handsome side through his role as Dan Humphrey on The CW’s Gossip Girl. Then, he showed his creepy and spine-tingling side in the hit Netflix series You. Now, the fluidly talented actor has showed off his dance moves through a video posted to TikTok, and fans have all of the funny takes on it.

Penn Badgley’s TikTok videos show he clearly has a sense of humor, as he made his debut on the platform by spoofing Taylor Swift’s music video for "Anti-Hero." His latest video shows him dueting with popular TikToker Elyse Meyers, who performed a viral dance routine to Meghan Trainor’s "Made You Look." As Meyers posted in her video that her invite to be a backup dancer for the music video must have gotten lost in the mail, Badgley mused that the same thing must've happened to his invite. There are over 30,000 comments on this post and, based on those, fans feel the John Tucker Must Die star crushed it. Even Trainor herself said, “Y’ALL ARE ALWAYS INVITED IM DEEEAAADDDD!” Check out the viral clip down below:

As expected Twitter users had their responses to the star's swift dance moves, with one post making note of the way the star's hair moves when he's jamming out. (No, seriously, someone pointed that out.): 

Another Twitter user shared the video and had somewhat mixed feelings on it. And I think some fans can probably relate to the sentiments. Check out what they said:

I mean, it's almost like watching Patrick Bateman from American Psycho trying to dance. It's creepy -- but at the same time, entertaining. Though there are plenty of people who are here for it. A third tweet mentioned Penn Badgley's decision to join TikTok, and it sounds like this person is quite pleased with it:

Penn Badgley's character on You horrifies men more than women, as the actor himself explained. And based on another hilarious tweet, we may have a reason for why that might be the case:

Of course, not everyone is on the social media platform, and the reasons for that can vary. However, based on one funny post, it would seem that the Gossip Girl alum may entice at least one person to join up:

To put it simply, Penn Badgley is slaying with his dance moves on TikTok, and it's not hard to see why the Internet can’t stop buzzing about them. The Lifetime-turned-Netflix show You will soon be entering its fourth season, with the first part premiering on February 10, 2023 and the second dropping on March 10 of the same year. Be sure you have a Netflix subscription if you want to check it out, and look over CinemaBlend's 2022 TV schedule for info on shows that are airing before the year is out.

The rumors surrounding Marvel’s First Family keep twisting and stretching as we wait for the official cast of the next Fantastic Four movie to be announced. Much like with Spider-Man and Batman, many have donned the blue suits in their attempts to make this property work, but none have been able to uphold a cinematic franchise. Marvel has announced that this new Fantastic Four movie will kick off Phase 6 of the MCU in 2024. The latest of these fan castings, is the leader of the family, Mr. Fantastic himself, Reed Richards. 

In his latest piece posted on Instagram, @bosslogic drew Penn Badgley (you know, that creepy stalker from Netflix’s show You, and that creepy blogger from Gossip Girl) as the next Reed Richards. But the artist added a caveat saying he would rather see Badgley suit up as the Fantastic Four’s arch-enemy, Doctor Doom. 

 I would agree with @bosslogic, Badgley would make for a better villain. However, down in the comments @harleyplays defended the theory saying:

 This comment about “Jim as Reed,” or more accurately, John Krasinski as Reed, is something that has the internet buzzing. Ever since the release of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Krasinski’s casting has been a point of contention; however, Krasinski's future with Marvel seems promising. That said, it’s unclear what his involvement will be moving forward in the MCU. Some have speculated that Krasinski could continie to be Reed Richards and might even potentially direct Fantastic Four. 

Even with the possibility of Krasinski playing the main Reed Richards, there's not a lot of solid information we have received about the film. With Jon Watts's exit from Fantastic Four, there are rumors swirling about who be at the helm of the film. Marvel may have found its director in WandaVision's Matt Shakman. but that hasn't been officially confirmed.

Casting rumors about the other three Fantastic Four members have also been floating around. While she has said she won’t be in it, fans love the idea of Emily Blunt being Sue Storm. Fan art of Joseph Quinn, the Stranger Things breakout star, as Johnny Storm has also been made. As for The Thing, Dan Fogler, of Fantastic Beasts fame, said it would be a “dream role.”

Hopefully we’ll learn who will officially star the highly anticipated Fantastic Four soon, but for now, we can only imagine. And hey, it’s the multiverse, so who knows what will happen? The possibilities are infinite!

Have you ever watched a classic early-2000s movie and thought to yourself, “What in the world happened to that early-2000s actor?”

John Tucker Must Die (2006) is the perfect example of a movie that checks all the teen rom-com boxes. Dorky girl who’s actually hot? Check. Love triangle? Check. Varsity basketball team full of men that look way too old to be in high school? Double check. But, what became of the actors who created this piece of early-2000s culture? 

Luckily for fans of the movie, many of the actors have been pretty busy since the release of John Tucker Must Die. But, like many actors from any era of film and TV, you might have to look a little bit harder to track these stars down.

Here’s what all your favorite John Tucker Must Die actors have been up to lately, including the projects you can catch them in if you’ve been missing them in the nearly 20 years since the film came out.

Brittany Snow (Kate)

Shy outsider-turned-“it girl” Kate was played by Brittany Snow, a teen queen from this era of TV and movies.

Shortly after the release of John Tucker Must Die, Snow starred in Hairspray (2007) as Amber von Tussle, although most fans of the actress would probably first recognize her from her role in the Pitch Perfect movies as Chloe, the bubbly soprano whose vocal nodes turn her into a bass.

In the years since, Snow has starred in ore guested on a number of TV series, including Ben and Kate, Full Circle, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and Almost Family, as well as the A24 horror film, X (2022). Upcoming projects for Brittany Snow include Stripped and Big Nickel, both currently in pre-production.

Jesse Metcalfe (John Tucker)

The titular character in John Tucker Must Die was played by Jesse Metcalfe, a teen-heartthrob actor who successfully carried the weight of portraying an unlikable character who still has enough redeeming qualities to make the audience root for him.

After the release of John Tucker Must Die, Metcalfe continued his recurring role on the ABC drama Desperate Housewives, as well as performing in a number of other TV shows, including Chase and Dallas.

In the years following John Tucker Must Die, Metcalfe became a staple of Hallmark romantic TV movies, acting in a number of them, including A Country Wedding, Fairfield Road, and Christmas Next Door. You may also recognize Metcalfe from films like Beyond A Reasonable Doubt and the Dead Rising zombie thriller series.

In the future, Metcalfe will appear in On a Wing and a Prayer, a drama/thriller about a pilot who dies in the middle of a flight; he’ll also star in the third installment of the Fortress franchise, although a release date hasn’t yet been announced.

Sophia Bush (Beth)

In addition to playing Beth, a character regrettably referred to as a “vegan slut” in John Tucker Must Die, Sophia Bush is best known for her nine-year run as Brooke David on the CW drama One Tree Hill.

While still working on One Tree Hill, Bush appeared in the horror film The Hitcher, as well as the comedy, Table for Three.

In the years since the conclusion of One Tree Hill, Sophia Bush has appeared in a number of TV series, including Partners, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Good Sam, and Love, Victor. From 2013 to 2017, she also held a starring role on Chicago P.D. as detective Erin Lindsay, while guest starring as that character on Chicago Med and Chicago Fire.

Bush is also known for her podcasts, including Work In Progress and Drama Queens OTH, the latter of which discusses One Tree Hill plotlines, behind-the-scenes commentary, and even negative set experiences from the stars of the show themselves.

Upcoming appearances for Bush include Junction, a movie about the opioid crisis in America, set to premiere some time in 2023.

Penn Badgley (Scott)

Penn Badgley was the “dorky” little brother in John Tucker Must Die, but he evolved into Joe Goldberg, everyone’s favorite serial killer from the Netflix original series You.

Prior to appearing in the highly successful thriller series, Badgley's best roles were in Easy A (one of my personal favorite teen comedies) alongside Emma Stone, as well as the massively popular series, Gossip Girl, where he starred for six seasons as Dan Humphrey.

While Badgley has been pretty busy with You since its premiere in 2018, you can also catch him in the recent mob-thriller, The Birthday Cake (2021).

Ashanti (Heather)

While Ashanti’s most popular film appearance is probably that of spunky cheerleader Heather in John Tucker Must Die, the actress/singer is a Grammy award-winning artist. If you need an Ashanti fix, she’s starred in many music videos during her long career as an R&B singer, all of which are available to watch on YouTube.

Ashanti appeared in Army Wives as Latasha Monclair, but has also played herself in small roles in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Dynasty.

Ashanti will appear in the upcoming film, The Plus One, alongside fellow early-2000s movie alum, Jonathan Bennett.

Arielle Kebbel (Carrie)

Right around the same time as John Tucker Must Die, Arielle Kebbel appeared in the mermaid movie, Aquamarine, portraying the role of the local bully, Cecilia. In the years following these successful films, Kebbel has appeared in movies like Daydreamer (2007) and Vampires Suck (2010).

She also appeared in the CW show 90210 as Vanessa Shaw, as well as a number of other television shows including The League, The Vampire Diaries, Midnight, Texas, Ballers, and 9-1-1. She’s also starred in some TV movies for the Hallmark channel, much like fellow John Tucker Must Die star Jesse Metcalfe.

In 2022, Kebbel will star in the film, Site, a horror movie about an abandoned government test site.

Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg (Lori)

Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, known at the time as Jenny McCarthy, played the role of Kate’s free-spirited mom, Lori, in John Tucker Must Die. In the years since the film’s release, McCarthy has starred in shows like Tripping the Rift, In the Motherhood, Two and a Half Men, and Return of the Mac.

Fans of Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg can currently find her on The Masked Singer, where she serves as a panelist on the popular celebrity singing competition.

Taylor Kitsch (Justin)

After playing the minor role of Justin in John Tucker Must Die, Taylor Kitsch went on to originate the role of Tim Riggins in the series Friday Night Lights (which might be rebooted).

In the years since Friday Night Lights, Kitsch has appeared in movies such as John Carter (2012), Lone Survivor (2013), and the recently released Amazon series, The Terminal List. More of Kitsch’s TV work includes a lead role on the anthology series, True Detective, as well as the lead in the miniseries, Waco.

In 2022, Kitsch will appear in the new TV miniseries Painkiller, a Netflix drama about the opioid crisis.

Patricia Drake (Coach Williams)

Patricia Drake’s portrayal of the strict cheerleading coach in John Tucker Must Die is just one credit in this actor’s lengthy filmography. 

Following John Tucker Must Die, Drake appeared in the TV series The Guard, Class of the Titans, and Being Ian. She’s also done a fair amount of voice work for Barbie-related projects, as well as the 2018 Polly Pocket series.

Most recently, Drake was seen in Mike Flanagan’s horror series, Midnight Mass. She’ll appear in the next Mike Flanagan work, The Midnight Club, as well, which is set to premiere some time in 2022.

Terrell J. Ramsey (Tommy)

Known by the name Fatso-Fasano at the time of John Tucker Must Die, actor Terrell J. Ramsey now goes by his real name.

Ramsey is known for the TV series Weeds, but has had a number of smaller roles, including stints on The Mentalist, Entourage, Harry’s Law, and Kidding. In 2022, Ramsey will star in Cheddy Ace, a comedy about a man and his nephews working to repay a debt to a local gang.

To relive the masterpiece that is John Tucker Must Die, you can rent or buy the movie on Amazon. 

Penn Badgley seems to have mastered the delicate balance of playing Joe Goldberg on the shocking Netflix series You. Joe is an obsessive stalker with major trust and abandonment issues who murders in the name of “love,” and we’re still, somehow, rooting for him? So it’s no surprise there are conversations on set about being sure Badgley hits the right tone when portraying the protagonist. Given the character’s actions, however, that apparently sometimes had led to some pretty crazy notes from his directors, specifically when it comes to Joe’s masturbation scenes.

The Gossip Girl alum opened up on his podcast Podcrushed about the note he tends to get from directors when enacting one of the stalker’s self-gratification scenes. Where one might think an actor would have to be encouraged to simulate pleasuring himself in public for a show that will be seen by millions of people, Penn Badgley said he actually gets the request to tone down on the creepy. The actor divulged:

I mean, touché, on that response, because is it the masturbation that’s creepy, or is it the fact that Joe lacks the self-control to not rub one out in the bushes while stalking his latest obsession? Creepy because his eyes are open, or creepy because he imprisons people in a glass cage in the basement of a library and murders them? 

Penn Badgley specifically recalled back in Season 1, director Lee Toland Krieger gently tried to push him in a different direction when the actor refused to close his eyes while filming that scene. In Badgley’s words:

It’s actually pretty funny to picture the directors giving Penn Badgley such specific instructions on how to pleasure himself less creepily, especially when you consider that the actor pushed back against the note. Being creepy was the whole point of the character, he argued!

We’ll have to see if and how Joe’s voyeuristic ways have evolved when You returns to Netflix for Season 4. After Joe faked his death in a supposed murder/suicide, the stalker fled Northern California’s Madre Linda, at the end of Season 3, apparently to search for Marienne in Paris. However, it seems like Joe is taking in a full European holiday, as the upcoming season will be set in London.

Filming started in March 2022, so as we wait for updates about when we can expect to see Season 4, you can catch up on (or rewatch) the first three seasons with a Netflix subscription. Also be sure to check out these other shows and movies to watch if you like You, and if it’s the actor that keeps you coming back, check out what to watch if you like Penn Badgley.

There are many teen shows out there that have made stars, and one who always stands out to me is Penn Badgley, an actor who primarily became famous from his big-time role in Gossip Girl, but has continued to make an impression with roles in shows such as You on Netflix, and fun comedy movies like Easy A. 

From his starring roles in thriller series to his performances as a leading man in films, these are some awesome Penn Badgley movies and TV shows that you should watch right now, or rent as soon as you can. 

Gossip Girl (HBO Max)

When it comes to some of his best work, Gossip Girl is certainly a show where Penn Badgley has shined. This popular CW show tells the story of Upper East Side teenagers in New York City who are all involved in their own scandals - which are reported on by the legendary Gossip Girl. 

The Gossip Girl cast is filled to the brim with talent that has gone far in Hollywood, including the star, Blake Lively, but Penn Badgley, who played Dan Humphrey in the legendary teen series, made his mark on the show. His performance as the middle-class writer who somehow infiltrates the lives of Upper East Siders made him a likable character, and one that fans easily loved. 

Stream Gossip Girl on HBO Max.

John Tucker Must Die (Amazon Rental)

In this fun teen movie, John Tucker Must Die follows three girls who find out that John Tucker is simultaneously dating them all at once, so in order to humiliate him, they come together to find the best way to end his nefarious ways. 

John Tucker Must Die isn’t the best teen movie out there (my personal favorite is She’s The Man), but there’s no denying that it's a fun time, with a lot of hilarious moments and an entertaining cast, including Penn Badgley, who played Scott Tucker, the brother of John Tucker and someone who is the complete opposite of him, with his sweet personality and his great chemistry with Kate (played by Brittany Snow). 

Rent/buy John Tucker Must Die on Amazon.

Drive-Thru (Amazon)

If you’re looking for a dark comedy/slasher film, Drive-Thru is a fun one to watch. This movie, set in Orange County, California, involves something that everyone can agree is scary - clowns, specifically focusing on an evil one that ends up being a serial killer who's running around murdering everyone. 

Fun fact, both Leighton Meester, who was also in Gossip Girl, and Penn Badgley starred in this film, so it’s always fun to see them in something that’s not the popular teen series, but there are many reasons I like Badgley in this role in particular. The film itself is campy as hell (it was a direct-to-video release and a little silly), but Badgley is honestly a great star in this as Van, who was very easy-going compared to a lot of the other characters - plus, his hair in this is stellar. 

Rent/buy Drive-Thru on Amazon.

Easy A (Hulu)

Definitely one of my favorite teen comedies from the last couple of decades. In Easy A, a hilarious teen comedy, a young woman decides to go through with a scheme at her school in order to help people get popular by pretending to have sex with them - but soon, this starts to turn on her when rumors begin to spread. 

First off, Emma Stone is always a win and is fantastic in this comedic film, but you have to love Penn Badgley as her friend, “Woodchuck” Todd. Their scenes together are so wholesome and funny and I have to say that I love that their friendship is one of the main drivers of the film, because these two had such great chemistry together. I also loved all the scenes of Penn Badgley in that mascot costume, because oh my God, they were so funny. Who knew he had such comedic timing? 

Stream Easy A on Hulu.
Rent/buy Easy A on Amazon.

Margin Call (Netflix)

Next up, we have Margin Call. This drama stars several actors like Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, and more, and tells a story of an investment bank on Wall Street, and one of the most terrifying times in the banking industry - the early days of the financial crisis before the 2008 recession in the United States, and how these employees reacted to the decline. 

I sort of look at this as one of Penn Badgley’s more serious roles, as he starred as Will Emerson, the head of credit tracing at the bank, and he’s phenomenal, really stealing the show in every scene he’s in. The story in this is also incredible, too - which is why it got a nomination for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards. It’s definitely a fantastic drama and one you should for sure watch if you like Badgley in more dramatic roles. 

Stream Margin Call on Netflix.
Rent/buy Margin Call on Amazon.

Greetings From Tim Buckley (Amazon Rental)

If you’re looking for a role where Penn Badgley is most certainly the star, be sure to check out Greetings from Tim Buckley. This movie tells the story of Jeff Buckley, the son of famous singer, Tim Buckley, and how he came to terms with his father’s death and held a performance in honor of his dad’s legendary career, performing his songs.  

Penn Badgley is just great as Jeff Buckley, and it makes me wonder why this film didn’t get as much attention as it should have. His performance is perfect, and let’s not even get started on the scenes where he plays guitar - I swear, I never knew he could sing! The whole film is a great way to honor the Buckleys, and Badgley certainly does the songs justice. 

Rent/buy Greetings from Tim Buckley on Amazon.

Parts Per Billion (Peacock)

Next up, we have Parts per Billion. This romantic drama takes a look at the lives of three separate couples that all have one thing in common - an attack on their lives is coming, and now they must find ways to survive when the world is falling apart. 

This film is certainly out there, as it takes a look at an “end of the world” scenario and tries to make it a lot less crazy than many other disaster films out there, but I can enjoy it due to the acting from Penn Badgley. His specific storyline as Erik with Anna (played by Teresa Palmer) was enthralling and I was thoroughly invested, and their story had a fitting end considering what happened in the film. This is one of those movies where I don’t want to reveal too much, but you should definitely check it out. 

Stream Parts Per Billion on Peacock.

Here Today (Starz)

If you’re looking for a wholesome comedy to watch, check out Here Today. This great film, starring the amazing Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish, tells the story of two people from two different generations who end up meeting and forming a friendship unlike any other, despite their respective ages. 

This film, genuinely, made me cry, and I mean that in the best way. The two main stars are fantastic but the rest of the cast is just as good, as Penn Badgley as Rex, the son of Charlie Burnz (Billy Crystal) was outstanding. Again, this film shows his awesome acting talents from the moment he steps on the screen, and his chemistry with Billy Crystal is second to none and shows just how much he has evolved and changed as an actor. I could re-watch this film over and over and still cry at some of these scenes. You just have to love it. 

Stream Here Today on Starz.
Buy Here Today on Amazon.

The Paper Store (Tubi)

Moving on, we have The Paper Store. This drama film follows a former college student who has made a living out of forging college essays, which in turn leads her to Sigurd Rossdale, a grad student who is in need of her services, but working for him ends up changing her life for the worse when a professor discovers what she is doing. 

The Paper Store is a smaller film compared to many of the other movies and TV shows on this list, but it’s still just as good, if not better, because the cast is small and you can really focus on the individual talents of each actor. Penn Badgley as Sigurd Rossdale was fantastic and his chemistry with Stef Dawson as Annalee Monegan really drove the story. You knew what they were doing wasn’t right, but you couldn't help but want to root for them, and to me, I feel that made the movie all the more better. It’s an awesome film. 

Stream The Paper Store on Tubi.
Rent/buy The Paper Store on Amazon.

You (Netflix)

It’s why you’re here, isn’t it? You on Netflix is a popular series that stars Penn Badgley as Joe Goldberg, a seemingly normal, everyday man who has a secret - he falls in love too easily, and will do anything to keep that girl in his life - even kill for her. But, over the course of three seasons, he starts to run into more and more problems as his love interests change. 

While I do think Penn Badgley is great in many other roles, there’s nothing quite like him in You. He plays Joe almost a little too well, and it makes me wonder why I - as well as so many other viewers - tend to like him so much, and it’s because of Badgley’s amazing delivery and performance. The show just gets crazier and crazier as time goes on, and there are some truly shocking moments where, if you like a thrilling series, you’ll love this show. Seriously, check it out if you haven’t. But, I’m sure you have, haven’t you? 

Stream You on Netflix.

With You Season 4 already planned, it won’t be long before we see Penn Badgley grace our television screens again, but until then, you just might find a new TV show or movie to watch. Or, maybe just re-watch You like I would. I just can’t get enough of the craziness.  

Spoiler alert! This story contains major spoilers for Season 3 of the Netflix drama You. Proceed with caution if you haven’t finished streaming the latest season.

The murderous drama You returned to Netflix for Season 3, with serial killer Joe back to his old tricks of stalking, manipulating, gas-lighting and killing. This season, however, he wasn’t alone. Joe’s journey with new — and equally kill-happy — wife Love in Season 3 forced the character to confront his demons, address his issues and focus on his family, for better or for worse, in a way that actor Penn Badgley thinks should change his character going forward.

Netflix announced the renewal of You for Season 4 just as the third season dropped on the streaming service. So while binge-watchers still saw Joe walk away in the end after killing and framing Love in similar fashion to Guinevere Beck in Season 1, Love was entangled with Joe so deeply, knowing his secrets and understanding his motives like no one else ever had. Penn Badgley acknowledged the effect Love’s death would have had on Joe, and he told EW that in future seasons of You, that change is going to have to be addressed.

Can we all agree "The Whole Device of Joe" should be the name of a You tribute band? But I digress.

Unlike many of the series’ murders, Love’s demise — set to the somber tune of Taylor Swift’s “Exile” — felt like more than just another of Joe’s obsessions falling prey. Maybe it was the way Victoria Pedretti portrayed Love as Joe’s equal rather than his victim, but Season 3 made me forget that Love hadn’t been Joe’s partner in crime all along. Her death just hit different.

So what might we expect from Joe Goldberg — or “Nick,” perhaps, as Joe faked his death — when You returns for Season 4? If the creative team follows the same general mold of the previous seasons, Joe could try to track down Marienne, which he was doing in Paris at Season 3’s end. Regardless of if he finds her or not, history would suggest he’ll still end up finding a new woman to obsess over, 'til death do they part.

But the way that Season 3 addressed more of Joe’s past — his mother, a possible stepbrother, abandonment issues — may have been an indication of a turning point for Joe. Couples therapy with Love began the process of forcing him to recognize some of his patterns, and viewers saw a dramatic decrease in the amount of killing Joe was willing to do.

It’ll likely be a while before we get any specifics on Season 4, but in the meantime, you can revisit all three seasons of You on Netflix. You might also want to check out our list of best shows to binge watch on Netflix, as well as some upcoming Netflix TV premiere dates.

You fans have been anxiously awaiting the return of Joe (Penn Badgley) and Love (Victoria Pedretti), especially after the You Season 2 dramatic ending. The Netflix hit series takes Love and Joe in even darker, and sometimes very comedic, directions in You Season 3. Joe and Love have an entirely new life in the suburbs, which means a new You Season 3 cast.

Whether you’ve already binge watched the entirety of You Season 3, or are just starting it, you may be curious about some of the new, and even some of the familiar, faces you've seen. Let’s take a look at some of the past TV and film projects of the major players in the You Season 3 cast. 

Penn Badgley (Joe Goldberg)

You’s main protagonist/antagonist, Joe, once again is trying to be a better man. However, this isn’t easy when he’s with someone just as psychopathic as him. It is hard to imagine two toxic serial killers having a healthy relationship and being good parents, but hey, stranger things have happened. Prior to You, Penn Badgley was best known for his role as Dan Humphrey in the Gossip Girl cast. 

Bagley has also appeared in the films John Tucker Must Die, The Stepfather, and Easy A. He’s also appeared in episodes of the TV shows The Slap, The Bedford Diaries,  What I Like About You, and The Twilight Zone. 

Victoria Pedretti (Love Quinn)

Joe met his true soulmate when he met Love Quinn. Unluckily for him, she’s just as crazy about love as he is, and willing to do whatever it takes to make their relationship last. Pedretti is best known for being part of the Mike Flanagan cinema-verse. She has had main roles in Haunting of Hill House and The Haunting of Bly Manor. 

Pedretti has also appeared in the films Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Shirley, Star-Crossed: The Film, and will be in the upcoming Alice Sebold biopic Lucky. 

Saffron Burrows (Dotti Quinn)

You Season 2 introduced the show’s fans to the Quinn family, which included Love and Forty (James Scully). It also included their parents, who had a smaller role in season 2, but Dottie, played by Saffron Burrows, has a much bigger role in You Season 3. She will be giving her daughter and grandchild a lot more attention this season. 

Burrows has a long history in the film and TV world. She’s appeared in the TV shows Boston Legal, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Elementary, and Mozart in the Jungle. She has also appeared in the movies The Bank Job, Reign Over Me, Frida, Knife Fight, and Troy. 

Scott Speedman (Matthew)

Scott Speedman was announced as one of the new You Season 3 cast members soon after production resumed on the series. This likely meant that he would have a major role in the new season of You. Speedman plays Matthew. He’s a wealthy businessman who is a husband and father. Mathew is a mysterious figure in this season. 

Speedman returned to Grey’s Anatomy in 2021, reprising his role as Dr. Nick Marsh and becoming part of the main cast. Speeman may best be known for his roles in Felicity, Animal Kingdom, and the Underworld franchise. Speedman has also had roles in the films Dark Blue, XXX: State of the Union, The Strangers, Run This Town, and The Vow. He has also appeared in the TV shows Last Resort, the '90s Nancy Drew, and Goosebumps. 

Dylan Arnold (Theo)

Theo (Dylan Arnold) is a college student who buries his own problems but gets too involved in the problems of his friends and family. He has a complicated relationship with his step-father. Dylan Arnold has appeared in the TV shows When We Rise, Nashville, S.W.A.T, The Purge, and Into the Dark.

Many may recognize Arnold for playing Cameron Elam in Halloween and Halloween Kills. He also plays Noah in After and its sequel, After We Collided. He also had a role in the Netflix movie Mudbound. 

Tati Gabrielle (Marienne)

Marienne (Tati Gabrielle) is the local librarian. As a librarian, she’s very observant, savvy, and keen on everything going on around her neighborhood. Of course, she’s hiding her own personal struggles while trying to be a good mom. Marienne may take some characterization from one of the You book characters. 

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina fans may recognize Gabrielle from her role as Prudence Blackwood. Gabrielle has also appeared in the TV shows The 100, K.C Undercover, The Thundermans, Freakish, as the voice of Willow Park in The Owl House, and as Addie in The Emoji Movie. She will also appear in the upcoming movie Uncharted, and the Netflix heist TV show Jigsaw. 

Travis Van Winkle (Cary)

Cary (Travis Van Winkle) owns a supplement company and has a bit of a guru quality to him. He’s the one who first invites Joe into his inner circle. Van Winkle is best known for playing Trent Sutton DeMarco in Friday the 13th, and for his role in Transformers. He has also appeared in the films Accepted, Meet the Spartans, and Rites of Passage. 

Travis Van Winkle also has a pretty active TV career. He’s appeared in episodes of That’s So Raven, Malcolm in the Middle, The O.C, 7th Heaven, and Veronica Mars. He also had a main role as Danny Green in The Last Ship. Van Winkle had recurring roles in 90210, Happy Endings, Squad 85, and Hart of Dixie. 

Shalita Grant (Sherry)

Sherry (Shalita Grant) is a mom influencer who makes sure her followers see her as this kind, warm mother, but she gives total mean girl energy to everyone else. She sees Love as a threat, so things may get intense between the women, at least at first. Many may recognize Grant as Aurelia on Mercy Street and Sonja on NCIS: New Orleans. She has also had recurring roles on Santa Clarita Diet and Search Party. 

Shalita Grant has also appeared on episodes of NCIS, Battle Creek, Melissa & Joey, Bones, and The Good Wife. 

Michaela McManus (Natalie)

Unfortunately, Natalie (Michaela McManus) finds herself as the newest object of Joe’s obsessions. This is especially not good because she has a husband, and the fact that most of the women that Joe becomes obsessed with don’t live very long. Michaela McManus gained many fans in her role as Lindsey Strauss on One Tree Hill. She also played A.D.A. Kim Greylek in Law & Order Special Victims Unit from 2008 to 2009. 

McManus has also appeared on the TV shows CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, CSI: NY, CSI: Miami, Hawaii Five-O, and The Magicians. She has also had main and recurring roles on The Village, SEAL Team, Aquarius, Necessary Roughness, Awake, and The Vampire Diaries. McManus also had roles in the movies Funeral Kings, Love Finds You in Valentine, and The Block Island Sound. 

Scott Michael Foster (Ryan)

Ryan (Scott Michael Foster) is a local television reporter. On the surface, Ryan seems like a charming single father who overcame addictions. However, like most characters in You Season 3, he has a lot more to his story and personality. Scott Michael Foster’s most well-known roles are as Cappie on Greek, and Nathaniel on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. 

Foster has also had recurring roles on Quarterlife, Parenthood, Melissa & Joey, Californication, The River, Halt and Catch Fire, Chasing Life, and Once Upon a Time. He was also Wick on Blood & Oil and Arron on Zero Hour. Scott Michael Foster has also appeared in the films My Dead Boyfriend, In the Key of Love, 5 Years Apart, and The Boy Behind the Door. 

Shannon Chan-Kent (Kiki)

Kiki (Shannon Chan-Kent) is one of the prominent members of Sherry’s friend group. She’s a wife, mother, and life-coach. As expected, she’s into fitness and gossip. Shannon Chan-Kent has done a lot of voice-over work, including various My Little Pony and Littlest Pet Shop shows, The Powerpuff Girls, Sabina’s Secret Life, and several Barbie movies. 

Kent has also appeared in episodes of Life Unexpected, Bates Motel, Lucifer, Supergirl, and The Arrangement. She had recurring roles on Life Sentence, Trial & Error, Get Shorty, Woke, and Good Trouble. Shannon Chan-Kent has also appeared on the TV movies Holiday Date, Sweet Mountain Christmas, In the Key of Love, A Feeling of Home, and Flip That Romance.

Ben Mehl (Dante)

Dante (Ben Mehl) is a librarian who is also a veteran. He has a husband and two stepchildren, but dreams of expanding his family to include more children. Mehl doesn’t have too many acting credits, so he seems fairly new to the world of screen acting. He does, however, have a past that involves teaching and a long history of stagework, including in the The Crucible, Troublemaker, Six Degrees of Separation, and Henry V.

Ben Mehl's screen work includes Viral Beauty, The Good Wife, and The Fly Room.

You Season 3 is bound to further prove why it’s one of the best shows on Netflix. It gives fans the Love and Joe that we’ve grown to love and a bunch of new characters to keep us intrigued and excited. It’s one of the Netflix TV shows that unites subscribers and makes us anxiously excited for the next season. We can’t wait to watch You Season 4, which is officially happening. 

Stream You Season 3 on Netflix. 

Netflix has announced a release date for Season 3 of the murderous You starring Penn Badgley, and thankfully fans won't have to wait much longer to see where the drama picks up for Joe Goldberg and Love Quinn, as it's been over a year since Season 2 came out. Season 3 of the stalker drama will be released on Friday, October 15, and the first promo seen above is giving us serious Dexter vibes, and not only from the "serial killer doing normal everyday things with a clean aesthetic" similarities to the former series opening creidts.

Viewers had to spend all of 2020 wondering what would come of Joe Goldberg after the revelation that our narrator seems to have finally met his match in Victoria Pedretti’s Love Quinn. As it was revealed at the end of Season 2 that Love is pregnant with their child, the Season 3 teaser picks up with Joe narrating to that child about what kind of father he’ll be and if Joe will pass on his murderous ways.

In the video we hear Joe's narration, speaking to his son about what he and Love should name him. Something classic. Something literary (obviously). Something with a homicidal nod? Henry is the name that is revealed, as the cake Joe is baking reads, "Welcome Baby Henry." Anyone familiar with Dexter, the eight-season drama with a serial killer protagonist that was also based on a book series, will remember that Dexter wondered if his son Harrison would inherit his violent ways, constantly worrying that his "dark passenger" would be a burden Harrison had to bare. (And hey, Harry and Henry aren't too far off from each other.)

But Harrison only had one murderer parent. The end of You Season 2 revealed that Love Quinn was no mere victim of Joe's stalking. She herself had a murderous past, as she killed the au pair who had sexually abused her twin brother Forty when they were teenagers. She also killed Joe's ex-girlfriend Candace, who threatened to expose all of Joe's crimes, as well as Joe's neighbor Delilah.

Season 2 left a lot viewers with a lot of other questions, and it's likely we'll get to see some of those play out in Season 3 come October. What will become of Joe's neighbor, who was set up to be Joe's potential new stalking victim. Is it possible the new baby and relationship dynamic with Love will keep him from stalking someone new? And what about Delilah's sister, Ellie? Joe has kept her safe to this point, getting her out of town and funding her new life. But will she stay gone, and will she stay quiet, even knowing Love is likely behind her sister's death?

The teaser also addresses Forty's death, and that Love's mother is referring to the new baby as "Forty reincarnated." There's no way that the Quinns' grief over Forty's death won't come into play in Season 3.

Netflix previously announced that You Season 3, like the two seasons before it, will be 10 episodes. The new season will also feature some new characters, as Travis Van Winkle, Scott Speedman and Shalita Grant join the cast. While we wait for You Season 3 to be released, you can catch up on the first two seasons streaming on Netflix, and be sure to check out our 2021 Fall TV Schedule for the premiere dates of all your favorite shows.

It’s been awhile since we’ve trekked over to the Upper East Side with the characters of Gossip Girl — a reboot on Max has even come and gone — but the story of best frenemies Blair and Serena remains beloved for those looking to indulge in a teen drama. The wild hookups, the cast of Blake Lively and other hot up-and-comers, and MY GOD, the Gossip Girl outfits all have a way of making us wish it was 2007 again. It’s been over a decade, though, since it all came to an end, so how exactly did each main character’s story wrap up?

From the big reveal about Dan Humphrey (Penn Badgley) to the political future of Chace Crawford’s Nate Archibald, here’s everything you need to remember about how Gossip Girl ended for each of its affluent young New Yorkers.

Dan Gets Unmasked Without Much Fallout

Gossip Girl ended in 2012 after six seasons with the revelation that “Lonely Boy” Dan Humphrey had been the blogger with the big mouth all along. (What a plot twist!) In professing his love to Blake Lively’s Serena van der Woodsen, he said with her being so out of his league, he’d known the only way to get on her radar would be to literally write himself into her narrative.

The ending caused confusion for many fans, as it didn’t make sense for Dan to be pulling the strings on many of GG’s schemes, and that’s possibly because Gossip Girl wasn’t always supposed to be Dan. This has also caused some viewers — as well as members of the cast — to not know who Gossip Girl was, even after the big reveal.

Despite the anonymous, Kristen Bell-voiced blogger wreaking havoc on all of their lives for the duration of their high school careers, Dan’s friends actually let him off the hook pretty easily, and he ultimately gets what he wanted from the whole thing: Serena.

Serena Gets Married And Finds Happiness

Despite the somewhat toxic nature of Serena and Dan’s relationship in later seasons, the couple that seemed destined to be together did make it happen — despite Dan being Gossip Girl, despite Dan writing terrible things about her in his book (he also wrote a nice chapter, though that went unpublished), and despite warnings from BFF Blair that “Lonely Boy” would never fit into their world.

The series’ final moments flash forward five years, where the high school buds have all reunited for Dan and Serena’s wedding. Not much else was revealed about what Serena’s young adult years held.

Chuck Bass Finally Gets A Family

Bad boy Chuck Bass, played by Ed Westwick, got quite the emotional — but ultimately happy — ending on Gossip Girl, as he first lost a family member before gaining one. Leading up to the finale, Chuck and his father Bart had gotten into a fight, during which Bart tried to kill his son but ended up falling to his death from the rooftop. With Chuck quickly becoming a suspect and his on-off girlfriend Blair as a witness, they decide to get married to keep Blair from having to testify against him.

It wasn’t the most romantic of circumstances, but it was still a lovely wedding for the fashion-forward couple, even if it was interrupted by the police to take the newlyweds in for questioning. He wasn't charged due to lack of evidence, and when we see him again at Dan and Serena’s wedding five years later, he appears happy and finally with a family.

Blair Gets Her Happily Ever After (Personally And Professionally)

As revealed in the time jump forward, Blair and Chuck are still married and have a son named Henry. Not only has the former queen bee finally locked down and settled in with the guy she’d wanted all along — never forget: “Three words, eight letters. Say it and I'm yours.” — she’s also killing it professionally. It’s revealed that Blair has taken over for her mother as the CEO of Waldorf Designs.

Nate Archibald: Future Mayor?

Nate Archibald (Chace Crawford) arrives at Dan and Serena’s wedding on a private jet, so we can assume things are going well for the editor-in-chief of The Spectator. Nate is the lone member of his friend group to not have a spouse (or children) five years after Blair and Chuck’s wedding, but a career in politics is teased. A reporter tells Nate he’s leading the polls for the upcoming mayoral race — despite not having announced his candidacy — and Nate replies that they’d “talk tomorrow.” You can draw your own conclusions.

Rufus And Lily Remain Friends But Are Dating Other People

Many Gossip Girl fans didn’t like that Dan’s dad Rufus (Matthew Settle) and Serena’s mom Lily (Kelly Rutherford) rekindled their romance when their children started dating and were married for most of Seasons 3-5. Thankfully when we jump ahead to their kids’ nuptials, the exes remain friendly, but Lily is back with Serena and Eric’s father William van der Woodsen, while Rufus is dating ‘90s singer Lisa Loeb.

Fan-Favorite Dorota Still Works For Blair

Though Blair’s maid Dorota Kishlovsky (Zuzanna Szadkowski) wasn’t technically a main character on Gossip Girl, I’d be remiss to not report how her story on the show concluded. Dorota became a fan favorite for her fierce loyalty to Ms. Blair and her enthusiasm for the queen bee’s schemes. More than a few times she even played an important role in Blair’s mischievous plots.

Well, fans will be happy to know that Dorota was still working with Blair and Chuck in the five-year time jump and appeared to be close with their son Henry. I shudder to think of the trouble Henry and Dorota would get into in his teen years!

Gossip Girl may have ended over a decade ago, but new audiences are still finding it and realizing what all the fuss is about. If you want to check it out for the first time or relive all of the events to led to Dan and Serena’s wedding, all six seasons — plus the two-season reboot of the same name — can be streamed with a Max subscription.

Gossip Girl was one of the CW’s most popular shows of all-time. It ran from 2007 to 2012, launching the careers of the main cast members. Gossip Girl became a major water cooler show for teens around the world. They eagerly discussed the latest drama going on at the Upper East Side.

Gossip Girl paved the way for teen dramas like Pretty Little Liars, its spinoff The Perfectionists, Riverdale, and The Dynasty reboot. Gossip Girl gave us six seasons of rich people drama, and it was one of the few series to have a mystery actually last the entire show. We wanted to know who was this Gossip Girl, and why was she such a snitch? The Gossip Girl reveal had fans scratching their heads, but it didn’t deter from the series’ fun six year run.

Gossip Girl was so popular that there is a HBO Max reboot in the works. This may result in an appearance by some of the original cast members. We’d love to see some of the cast return in new or reprised roles. However, this may be difficult with their busy schedules.

Blake Lively (Serena Van Der Woodsen)

Serena is one of the most popular IT girls of the Constance Billard School for Girls. She unexpectedly leaves the school—causing a lot of intrigue and mystery surrounding her absence. Serena becomes one of Gossip Girl’s favorite subjects.

Blake Lively has been very busy since Gossip Girl’s 2012 finale. The same year, she appeared in the movie Savages. A few years later, Lively appeared in the romantic drama The Age of Adaline. Then she had roles in The Shallows and Café Society. Café Society is a romantic dramedy by Woody Allen with an all-star cast that includes Kristen Stewart, Jesse Eisenberg, and Steve Carell. In 2018, Blake Lively appeared in Paul Feig’s comedy thriller A Simple Favor. She starred opposite Anna Kendrick and Henry Golding.

In 2020, Blake Lively appeared in the action drama The Rhythm Section with Jude Law and Sterling K. Brown. It follows a woman who turns her grief into revenge.

Leighton Meester (Blair Waldorf)

Leighton Meester really brought her queen bee game as Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girl. She was Serena’s status obsessed bestie. Blair develops and becomes one of the most interesting characters over the show’s six seasons.

In 2012, Leighton Meester appeared in the Andy Samberg, Adam Sandler comedy That’s My Boy. She then appeared in four films in 2014: Life Partners, The Judge, Like Sunday, Like Rain, and By the Gun. Life Partners paired her up on screen with real life husband Adam Brody. In 2014, Leighton Meester released her debut album called Heartstrings.

In 2017, she appeared in the TV series Making History. It was a short-lived Fox comedy starring Meester, Adam Pally, and Yassir Lester. In 2018, she landed one of the lead roles in Single Parents, an ABC sitcom about the struggles of being a single parent. In 2018, Leighton Meester appeared in the crime drama Semper Fi, a movie about a dedicated cop who hatches a plan to help his brother escape from prison.

Penn Badgley (Dan Humphrey)

Penn Badgley brought outsider Dan Humphrey to the world of the elite. He began Gossip Girl as a bit of an outcast because he doesn’t come from wealth, but he finds his place and ends up in a whirlwind love affair with Serena and Blair.

Penn Badgley has had one of the most successful post-Gossip Girl careers, at least in the TV world. He’s been making people say, “Dan who?” as Joe Goldberg in the hit Netflix series You. Penn Badgley appeared in a few movies following the Gossip Girl finale, including The Paper Store, Adam Green’s Aladdin, and Cymbeline. He is also working on an upcoming comedy with Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish called Here Today. Badgley has also had some music success with his band MOTHXR. The band released their first studio album, Centerfold, in 2016.

Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass)

Ed Westwick played resident bad boy Chuck Bass throughout Gossip Girl’s six seasons. Chuck Bass is one of those polarizing TV characters. You either love or despise him, but you rarely have lukewarm feelings towards him.

Ed Westwick appeared in a 2013 adaptation of Romeo & Juliet that starred Douglas Booth and Hailee Steinfeld. He’s appeared in several other films since Gossip Girl ended, including the comedy horror film Freaks of Nature, and the Chinese supernatural thriller Last Flight. His most prominent TV works were his appearance in the TV adaptation of the movie Snatch, playing a serial killer on ABC’s Wicked City, and British comedy White Gold. Ed Westwick has an upcoming movie called Me, You, Madness. The film isa comedy thriller about a thief who discovers he robbed the home of a serial killer.

Chase Crawford (Nate Archibald)

Chase Crawford used his model good looks to cause tension between Serena and Blair. He was the guy that came between them. Not surprisingly, Nate struggled with his feelings for both women through the course of the series’ first season.

Chase Crawford landed a role among the ensemble cast of What to Expect When You’re Expecting. One of his major post-Gossip Girl films was I Do…Until I Don’t, which included Ed Helms, Paul Reiser, and Amber Heard. He also appeared in Rules Don’t Apply, Eloise, All About Nina, and Charlie Says. Charlie Says is the Charles Manson film that stars Matt Smith.

Crawford joins Simon Pegg, Lily Collins, and Connie Nielsen in the upcoming film Inheritance. In Inheritance, a man dies and leaves his daughter keys to a place where he has a man imprisoned. Chase Crawford’s biggest gig since Gossip Girl is the Amazon Prime hit series The Boys, where he plays Aquaman-esque superhero The Deep.

Taylor Momsen (Jenny Humphrey)

Taylor Momsen played Dan’s younger sister Jenny in Gossip Girl. She started the series as a Blair groupie, but she eventually found her own place among the young, rich, and beautiful. Taylor Momsen was a main cast member from Seasons 1 to 4. She made guest appearances in Gossip Girl’s final season.

Music seems to run in the Gossip Girl family, but Taylor Momsen turned it into her full time career. Her band The Pretty Reckless has been going strong since their 2009 formation. The band has released three studio albums, with a fourth planned for 2020 called Death by Rock and Roll. The Pretty Reckless kick off a new tour in Spring 2020.

Jessica Szohr (Vanessa Abrams)

In Gossip Girl, Jessica Szohr played Dan’s loyal best friend Vanessa. She aspired to be a documentary filmmaker. Jessica Szohr left the show after Season 4, but made guest appearances in Gossip Girl’s final season.

Jessica Szohr appeared in many movies and television shows following her Gossip Girl departure. A few of her better-known works include Piranha 3D, I Don’t Know How She Does It, Tower Heist, The Internship, and Ted 2. She appeared in a few episodes of Twin Peaks continuation series. She also played Nessa on Shameless Season 8. In 2019, she became a series regular on The Orville as Talla Keyali. Leighton Meester made a guest appearance on The Orville Season 2, Episode 11, “Lasting Impressions,” setting up a Gossip Girl reunion between Meester and Szohr.

Kelly Rutherford (Lily Van Der Woodsen)

Kelly Rutherford brought Serena’s mother, Lily Van Der Woodsen, to life in Gossip Girl. She was a former photographer who has also been divorced several times.

Kelly Rutherford only appeared in a few movies following Gossip Girl’s end, including a Christmas movie called The Christmas Wedding Planner. She had many TV series guest appearances. She appeared in several episodes of the CW Dynasty reboot, and Kelly Rutherford had a main role on the Pretty Little Liars spin-off series The Perfectionists. She also appeared in Lifetime Network’s film adaptations of the V.C Andrews’ Casteel book series.

Matthew Settle (Rufus Humphrey)

Matthew Settle played Rufus Humphrey, Dan and Jenny’s dad. He used to be part of a rock band, but now owns a Brooklyn gallery. Like his son, he is fond of van der Woodsen women.

Matthew Settle appeared in the Blumhouse horror film Ouija, He also appeared in the film drama Marshall the Miracle Dog and the horror film The Faith of Anna Waters. Settle has gone silent on social media and hasn’t made any TV or movie appearances since 2016.

Kristen Bell (Gossip Girl)

Kristen Bell lent her voice to the Gossip Girl narrator all six seasons, and she plans to do it again. Kristen Bell has been busy since she stopped spreading gossip in the Upper East Side. She reprised her role as Veronica Mars for the crowdfunded movie in 2014, and then returned as the beloved character in Hulu’s Veronica Mars continuation series in 2019. Bell voiced Princess Anna in the Frozen franchise and played Kiki in the Bad Moms movies. She concluded her run as Eleanor in The Good Place in 2020. Kristen Bell also hosts the Disney+ series Encore!

HBO Max launches in May 2020, so we may see the Gossip Girl reboot start to take form then, or the streaming service might be saving its release. Either way, we can’t wait to return to the Upper East Side, and we hope to see some of the original Gossip Girl cast stop by for some good gossip. All six seasons of Gossip Girl are available to stream on Netflix. Stream it HERE.

Warning: Spoilers for the Season 2 finale of You

The second season of You left Penn Badgley injured and nauseous. However, it did come with some parts that he loved. The Netflix hit returned with an ending bang. In the Season 2 finale, You reveals that Joe shares his homicidal streak with someone else on the show. That’s right. Joe’s Season 2 obsession, the once seemingly innocent and sweet Love, has one too.

Penn Badgley has revealed his reaction to the surprising twist, which was somewhat foreshadowed early in the True Detective-style Season 2. Remember, Love heavily pursued Joe, and what is it they say about it taking one to know one? She kept insisting that she recognized and related to something in Joe. Badgley shared his thoughts on the not-so-lovely reveal, telling TVLine:

Props to Penn Badgley for knowing all along about Love and never projecting that into his performance in You, as far as I can tell. I left off at Episode 4 and have no reason to suspect that changes. What a challenge for Badgley, though!

Penn Badgley had to keep playing Joe’s admiration for Love when he knew of the deadly reveal that lied ahead. Upon first spotting her in You Season 2, Joe believed Love is one of the purest souls around, and Badgley totally conveyed that. Speaking of, Joe’s radar was way off, which is interesting. Did his obsessive infatuation blind him from seeing Love's true nature?

Maybe. For Penn Badgley, You’s Season 2 twist came as a welcome respite from last season’s ending wherein Joe murdered Beck. Hence, You switched up expectations in a significant way. The actor shared his reaction to learning of the Love twist and how he felt about it. As you may have suspected at this point, he welcomed the turnaround. Badgley said:

You did not do a wash, rinse, and repeat with its Season 2 ending. The game-changing reveal means that Joe was going toe-to-toe with a fellow killer all along in Season 2. You’s showrunner does not believe Joe is a sociopath. Does that also apply to Love? Joe went to great lengths to both gain and reject Love’s affection in You’s second season.

As hinted at in the teaser trailer, Joe kidnapped and assumed the identity of Will. A role played by an unrecognizable Robin Lord Taylor of Gotham fame. As for Penn Badgley, it is personally intriguing to hear his take on the Season 2 reveal. He previously revealed that his character horrifies more men than women. How will the reaction to Love fall? Stay tuned.

Season 1 and Season 2 of You are currently streaming on Netflix. It will soon be joined by the streamer’s 2020 content. The second season is one of this winter’s premieres.

Season 1 of the spicy thriller You was a whirlwind. From killer stalkers to undead ex-girlfriends, the show was an amalgamation of every addictive and dramatic trope in the book. (The metaphorical one, not just the You novel.) The series, which initially premiered on the Lifetime network before moving permanently to Netflix, officially has a Season 2 premiere date for Penn Badgley’s Joe Goldberg to getback to terrorizing someone new.

Penn Badgley, who was left injured and nauseous by Joe in Season 2, took to Twitter to tease You’s upcoming premiere, which will go down on Friday, December 26. That timing allows everyone to experience holiday cheer (hopefully) before diving back into this chaos.

Joe is “ready for a fresh start,” according to Penn Badgley. Though the 15-second teaser he shared doesn’t offer much in the way of what will happen in Season 2, the music is enough to carry on with the creepy vibe. December 26 can't come soon enough. Check out the teaser below!

The last we saw of super-stalker and murderer Joe Goldberg, he had just killed Beck and then went on his merry way. Seriously, the guy always acts so nonchalant about his kills after the fact. He thought he'd gotten away with everything, too. What he didn’t expect was for his supposedly dead ex-girlfriend Candace to pop back up in the bookstore where he worked. Season 2, which is said to share similarities with HBO’s True Detective, will be delving into more of her storyline, with Ambyr Childers having recent been promoted to series regular,

In fact, Candace might be following Joe from New York City to Los Angeles, where he’ll be taking up residence. While there, he’ll also be getting to know Victoria Pedretti’s Love Quinn, Joe’s new love interest and potential victim. Besides that location change, however, little is known about You’s Season 2 plot. The show is based on Caroline Kepnes’ novel of the same name, though, so curious fans might want to read the second book in the series ahead of the December 26 release date.

The series is adding Russian Doll star Charlie Barnett and Gotham’s Robin Lord Taylor in Season 2, and You has the potential to get a bit darker now that it’s no longer on Lifetime. Penn Badgley teased that there are “certain liberties” You is now able to take after the series moved to Netflix last December, and we can wait to be disturbed by them.

After all of the traumatizing events that happened during You’s first season, which reportedly became one of the top ten most-watched series on Netflix this year, it’ll be interesting to see how Season 2 tries to top that. I’m sure the writers have plenty of new (and murderous) tricks up their sleeves.

Stay tuned to CinemaBlend for more coverage on You Season 2 and get ready to not leave your couch when the sophomore season premieres on Friday, December 26, at 12:01 a.m. PT. In the meantime, be sure to check out our complete TV guide to every new and returning show premiering through the end of the year.

Penn Badgley's twisted romance thriller You is coming back for Season 2, but as fans may have heard, it's coming to Netflix and not Lifetime. Like most shows that jump from cable to streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, there are some looser restrictions and more freedom that can come with the change. So an obvious question fans might have concerns whether You will amp things up with its newfound freedom.

It's hard to imagine just what boundaries You could cross on Netflix that weren't crossed on Lifetime in Season 1. There was embarrassing sex, masturbation, a good deal of violence, and a fair amount of swearing. Penn Badgley couldn't say much about how much more of that can be expected now that the series is on Netflix for upcoming season, but the star gave a vague description of the differences audiences may see between Season 1 and 2.

That's kind of a vague answer from Penn Badgley, and could mean anything from Joe getting a nude scene to a character dropping a string of F-bombs when the situation calls for it. One would imagine it will be said at least a few times in Season 2, especially after the Season 1 finale took a pretty radical turn that surely played a part in the show becoming a hit on Netflix.

While certainly under the iron grip of producers and Netflix where spoilers are concerned, Penn Badgley shared that bit with Entertainment Tonight. Co-creator Sera Gamble, meanwhile, talked about more of the non-plot related details to The Daily Beast.

In terms of Season 2's flow, it appears the intention is to make this season a bingeable as the last. In Gamble's words:

Though Sera Gamble and crew likely had no idea You would become a Netflix phenomena, she admitted the show was constructed with the streaming service's binge-release model in mind. This may be why You was more or less an instant success in its first month on the platform, despite floundering to find an audience at Lifetime. Note that the ratings were decent for the network itself, if not the entirety of television.

Much like Penn Badgley, Sera Gamble was relatively quiet about big Season 2 details. She did confirm, however, that Season 2 will go in some different directions than Season 1.

For those really desperate to know some of those crazy details, Penn Badlgey was a bit more forthcoming in an interview not that long ago and briefly outlined some things audiences should look out for. For example, You Season 2 will apparently show some details of Beck's fate, which audiences didn't get to see on-screen in Season 1. Badgley also said he did some things with prosthetic bodies that made him nauseous, so get ready for that!

Why Are So Many You Fans In Love With Penn Badgley's Joe?

You Season 2 doesn't have a release date just yet, so be sure to stick with CinemaBlend for more updates on it and other things happening in movies and television.

When it comes to You Season 2, there have been some interesting glimpses into what to expect -- mostly through the casting vine as more and more actors have been added to the ensemble. Returning alongside that super crucial someone is the series’ lead: Joe.

While Joe will be undertaking a change in location by heading from New York to Los Angeles, some things remain the same. Joe is still a deranged stalker in You’s second season. Leading to what has been a draining experience for his portrayer -- Penn Badgley. On shooting Season 2, Badgley told ET:

What is Joe going to do that would cause Penn Badgley to suffer such an injury? Well, the first thought that springs to mind is him having to portray Joe moving a body (bodies?) around. It would not be the first time. Do not expect Joe’s reign of terror to end any time soon on You.

Having framed John Stamos’ Dr. Nicky for Beck’s murder, Joe is roaming free as a bird. Will Dr. Nicky fight back in Season 2? Your guess is as good as mine. However, I think it could be a safe bet. Penn Badgley's You Season 2 teases did not end there!

From what Penn Badgley is teasing about You’s next season, it seems as though Joe’s proximity to death will continue. Speaking about what he has had to do while playing Joe in Season 2, Badgley says:

Sounding more and more grisly by the moment. Penn Badgley said this after recounting the crimes that Joe committed in Season 1. Yikes. That is not the only disquieting tease that Badgley offered about Season 2. He also provided insight into the second episode of You’s next season.

Viewers are about to take another trip down memory lane. As you might expect, it is a deadly one. You’s Season 1 finale concluded with the reveal that Joe had murdered Beck. Hence, Dr. Nicky’s arrest. Penn Badgley reveals that Season 2 will revisit that crime, saying:

In You Season 1, Joe also acted as though his ex, Candace, was still alive. You shocked viewers with the realization that she actually is. Candace let Joe know it too -- showing up at the bookstore to make it clear he is on her radar. Whether or not he was aware of her lively status before that moment remains a mystery.

You will likely set about trying to solve it. Unlike Candace, there is no room for anyone to think Beck is still alive. As Penn Badgley stated, she is dead. Will Joe’s new obsession, Love Quinn, survive her ordeal with him? Stay tuned.

The Haunting of Hill House and now-Haunting of Bly Manor star Victoria Pedretti will play Love. She is an aspiring chef. A Gotham actor will co-star alongside Penn Badgley and Pedretti in the new season.

Penn Badgley’s insight into what has gone into filming Season 2 paints the picture of an ever more graphic second act. The actor previously revealed that he believes his character horrifies more men than women. He also had some thoughts on why the TV thriller was more of a hit on Netflix than Lifetime, the network that initially broadcast the series.

As someone who thought that Penny Badgley’s performance in You’s freshman season was incredible, it will be interesting to see what he brings to Season 2. The first season of You is currently streaming on Netflix. Season 2 does not have a release date yet. While you wait for one, there is a lot of new content arriving on the streaming giant this year. Meanwhile, summer television is also a hot spot.

One familiar face from You’s first season will be seen a lot more in Season 2. Considering how Season 1 left off, this character's heightened presence next season is unlikely to come as a huge surprise.

Ambyr Childers, who played Joe’s ex, Candace, has been promoted to series regular status, per Deadline. She starred on You in a recurring capacity throughout Season 1. As the season finale and this news indicate, there is a lot more in store for Candace in Season 2.

Warning: Spoilers from the first season of You are discussed below.

Throughout Season 1, You led viewers to assume that Candace had been killed. After Joe murdered Beck at the end of Season 1, it seemed to confirm that suspicion. In what was literally a last-minute twist, it was revealed that the latest young woman to catch Joe’s eye was actually a much-alive Candace.

Joe seemed as taken by surprise at Candace being alive as viewers. At least, this one. She greeted him with a “Hey, Bunny” before telling him that they had some “unfinished business” to discuss. Joe’s shock that Candace is alive seems to indicate that he thought she was dead, based on the last time they saw each other.

The shocking twist left the door wide open for You to delve into a lot of questions. What happened? How did Candace survive? Why did she wait so long before resurfacing? Has Candace always been able to roam around since her disappearance? If not, how long has she been able to? Why on earth is she approaching Joe instead of the authorities?

Those are just a few of the mind-boggling questions that Candace’s surprise survival brought up. How Joe will handle her arrival and, hence, survival in Season 2 is another question. He does not like loose ends, and Candace is one he did not anticipate.

Candace's story is among the many intriguing plots that await the second season of the Netflix hit. Viewers got to see some of her and Joe’s relationship play out via flashbacks in You’s first season. That relationship shadowed a lot of conversations between Beck and Joe.

Given their backstory, You has set Candace up to be in a unique position. She is one of the few people alive to know Joe’s twisted true nature.

Considering Candace’s history with Joe, it seems plausible that she suspects Joe murdered Beck. Will her suspicions free Dr. Nicky? You and many others will have to wait and see.

The first season of You is currently streaming on Netflix, alongside many other TV shows. Netflix has not announced a premiere date for Season 2 yet, so stay tuned. There will be a lot of new TV content to watch in the meantime.

You has been another hit for Netflix ever since the show was acquired from Lifetime. In a new interview, Penn Badgley is weighing in on why he believes his obsession-driven character actually horrifies more men than women. Offering his insight on the trend of men being more shaken by Joe, Badgley said:

It is interesting to contemplate how men and women’s reactions have differed to You and Joe across the spectrum. Penn Badgley shared his take on the multitude of responses with The New York Times, and the actor's assessment pegs women’s familiarity with the innate fear that Joe represents as being the key to the gender-based difference of opinions. Hypothetically, women are more used to it, so they can move beyond it more quickly.

Both You and Joe have drawn reactions from viewers that are somehow completely devoid of horror. Many have gone on social media to actually express their affection for the character as a dream suitor. Instead of, you know, a stalker nightmare. WARNING: Season 1 spoilers for You are discussed below.

Continuing his assessment, Penn Badgley questioned a certain element of viewers’ experience. Discussing what fans' affection for Joe implies, Badgley says:

Penn Badgley has not been shy about wading into You viewers’ more questionable responses to Joe, taking far more than one occasion to point out who Joe really is to fans on social media. One Twitter user reflected on how the actor was breaking their heart as Joe, to which Badgley bluntly stated that Joe is “a murderer.” Hard to argue with facts like that.

While many You viewers have been taken in by Joe, Penn Badgley has taken an inquisitive stand to the phenomena. The actor previously told E! that he is absolutely curious about why people like Joe as much as they do. Where does the answer lie?

Is it that You makes viewers watch from the villain’s P.O.V., instead of the victims'? Could that danger-laden approach be contributing to viewers’ feelings about its centerpiece? There have been films and TV shows that have stuck close to their central antagonists, but You puts the audience directly within Joe's mind and disturbing rationale.

If anyone ever figures out what drives viewers' positive reactions to You's Joe, it'll surely be the topic of countless think-pieces and debates to come, right? Especially since, despite its dark finale, the series will continue later in 2019 with a second season on Netflix, which is something that may not have been fully expected.

You’s first season saw Joe and Beck’s relationship end in shocking fashion when he ultimately murdered her after she learned his true nature. That move added Beck to Joe's pre-existing string of victims teased throughout the season, though he left Dr. Nicky to take the fall by getting incarcerated for Joe's crimes.

Having left an innocent man in jail, Joe will probably be dealing with some new characters in Season 2 who aren't yet aware of his true nature. With the first season setting up the character's truly vile nature, it will be interesting to see how viewers react to Joe in the second round.

The first season of You is currently streaming on Netflix, alongside many other TV shows. Netflix has not announced an official release date for Season 2 yet, so stay tuned. There will be a lot of new TV content to keep “you” busy during the midseason.

Warning! The following contains spoilers for You. Read at your own risk!

You is many Netflix subscribers' latest streaming obsession, and scores of people are gushing on the web about how great the drama series is. There’s also quite a few that are doting on the show’s diverse and deep list of characters, although some have grown an unhealthy attachment to the one character they absolutely should hate. I’m talking, of course, about Penn Badgley’s Joe Goldberg.

At first, I believed the Joe love was an isolated incident in which I wondered if I should worry about my little sister and her relationships when she said it. Then I went to Twitter, and it turns out there are quite a few who are open about their love of Joe, and how they pity the sociopathic main character of the twisted series, which originally aired on Lifetime. Why are so many fans in love with a character who is clearly deranged?

Luckily, the world got its answer straight from the mouth of Stranger Things actress Millie Bobby Brown, who broke down one of the common things Joe supporters have said quite eloquently.

Sorry, Eleven, but those who think You's Joe Goldberg is just a hopeless romantic pining for Rebecca’s love are wrong. What’s baffling is it doesn’t even take more than an episode to realize this, as Joe immediately begins engaging in activities that should qualify as disturbing.

To recap the first episode: Joe creeps on Beck on social media and uses that information to secretly observe her out on the town with her friends. He then follows her back home, and watches her hook up with a booty call through her window. Once the boyfriend is gone, Joe sticks around to watch her pleasure herself, and starts furiously masturbating while standing on the city sidewalk outside.

That’s just the first episode, and for those who haven’t gotten that far, things get a hell of a lot worse from there. Just going off that though, I would hope that any person who witnessed or heard of someone doing that would not have their heart melted and chalk that up to a declaration of love. That’s stalking, and a situation that can get dangerous really quick.

Still, there are those who pine for the romantic heart of Joe Goldberg, and somewhat identify with the hopeless romantic that he seems to be.

Joe Goldberg just wants to be loved, and at times, he does seem like a hopeless romantic. What You viewers who love Joe tend to overlook is that he goes about this the wrong way, choosing to try and manipulate others into their best selves rather than accepting them for who they are. They also tend to overlook that his connection to Beck was never real, and constructed solely on his fantasies and constant surveillance of her in private conversations and emails.

Case in point, what happened to Joe and Beck the moment he stopped spying on her every call? He stopped inherently knowing what she wanted, and things between them slowly shifted away until she eventually started an affair with Dr. Nicky. On that note, why does John Stamos never age? He is killing the beard game with that facial hair!

Back to Joe, I think the fundamental mistakes he made with Rebecca were controlling her life and trying to manipulate her into the person she wanted to be. I can kind of see how someone could mistake his intentions as noble, but everything Joe seemingly does for Beck serves his own self-interest in creating the person he wants to spend his life with.

Because if all Joe ever really wanted was love, he would’ve stayed with Karen. Karen didn’t need to be “fixed” and that ultimately bored Joe and led him to fooling around with Beck again. It also gave Karen a clean exit from that crazy situation, so good on her for being one of the few women in the show that saw him for what he really is.

Joe is a psychopath, yet there are those who pity him, and instead feel anger towards Beck while watching You.

I’ll cop to feeling some disdain towards Beck in the beginning, but mainly because I thought the big twist was going to be it was she manipulating Joe and Peach all along. I realized about midway through that wasn’t what was happening, and after that I found it hard to blame Beck for anything she may have done to hurt Joe. After all, Joe had hurt Beck 100x worse than the things she had done to him; she just didn’t realize it until it was too late.

Which leads into the ultimate reason why no one who watched You should obsess or wish for a lover like Joe Goldberg. Not only did he kill two people Beck was close to in her life, he also ends up killing her when shit hits the fan! Then not a week after framing Dr. Nicky, he’s back on the prowl and eyeballing another woman that walks into the book store.

Of course there’s more to that moment that sets the stage for what could be an insane Season 2, and as much as I hate what Penn Badgley’s Joe Goldberg has done to some people, I gotta see what he does next. Maybe next season can feature Badgley doing PSAs that advocate against looking for a person like his character? I need something to protect these people who basically think You is the modern equivalent of Romeo and Juliet.

For the record, Penn Badgley seems to be as concerned as I am about this disturbing trend. The former Gossip Girl actor went on a tear on his Twitter when the show popped off, and began fending off admirers hoping he’d go “Joe” on them.

Bottom line, I don’t support those searching for a companion like Joe Goldberg, but I'm thrilled that Netflix picked it up for Season 2. CinemaBlend will be on the lookout for updates on You, and television lovers can head over to our midseason premiere guide and see what’s headed to television.

YOU has taken Netflix subscribers by storm. When the suspenseful TV thriller made its debut on Lifetime, the audience it amassed there was not nearly as large. YOU's star, Penn Badgley, has offered his take on why the show has been a much greater hit on Netflix, saying:

It is impossible to argue with what Penn Badgley told The Washington Post in an email. The viewership uptick could not have happened for a better show. YOU's newfound mantle as a breakout hit is more evidence of the second chance streaming platforms, such as Netflix, offer shows -- especially series that are ignored on broadcast television.

There was an audience to be found for YOU, it just took getting the show on Netflix for them to discover it. As a viewer who watched during its initial run on Lifetime, it was hard to know such an incredible show was flying below pop culture's radar. Thankfully, Netflix has put YOU where it belongs.

During its first four weeks, Netflix claims that YOU is on track to be viewed by more than 40 million members. Numbers that put YOU on a promising track to being a TV success along similar lines to the streaming giant's cinematic hit, Bird Box. Netflix has not shared the context or data that further explains its report.

It goes without saying those numbers easily outdo YOU's ratings on Lifetime. When it aired on the cable network, it averaged 1.1 million viewers, per THR. To say, the show's success has skyrocketed on Netflix would be an understatement.

Clearly sensing what lied ahead, Netflix greenlit the would-be hit for a second season in early December 2018. A move that means when YOU returns for its second season, it will do so exclusively on Netflix.

YOU's hit status on Netflix does not come as a surprise to this viewer. Not only is the show absolutely terrific, it is also perfect for Netflix subscribers. It is a page-turner, built to be binge-watched as the ending of each episode seamlessly leads into the next.

Knowing it has not been made to air on Lifetime, it will be interesting to see what, if any, changes it undergoes creatively. Its second season will be created with a solely Netflix audience in mind. Based on how YOU's first season was cultivated, it seemed to have already taken that into consideration.

For those who have not watched yet. YOU follows Penn Badgley's Joe, a bookstore manager, whose obsession with an aspiring writer takes one shocking turn after another.

The first season of YOU is currently streaming on Netflix, alongside many other premieres. A release date for Season 2 has yet to be announced, so stay tuned. There will be a lot of new content to keep TV fans busy during the midseason.

"You" have not seen the last of the Penn Badgley-led series, YOU. Before the series premiered, Lifetime had given the dramatic thriller a renewal. That second season will still happen, just with a twist. It will not be on Lifetime. You is headed to Netflix.

The streaming giant has picked up the spectacular series' second season. YOU will return as a Netflix original when it makes its Season 2 bow. The move is not entirely unexpected. YOU's first season is set to arrive on the streamer in late December, as the perfect binge. When the show was renewed, the option for it to continue on Netflix was already in the cards.

This news means the jaw-dropping finale will not be left without a sequel season. YOU's move to Netflix is a significant and wonderful sign for the show. While it aired on Lifetime in the 10 p.m. ET slot, YOU's adult themes felt slightly constrained due to it airing on cable. Originating on Netflix should give the already-brilliant show even more room to flourish.

For those unaware of its plot, YOU follows Penn Badgley's Joe, a bookstore manager, whose infatuation with an aspiring writer is quickly revealed as an obsession. Pretty Little Liars' Shay Mitchell also stars in a pivotal role as the best friend of Joe's crush, Elizabeth Lail's Beck. YOU's premise and its execution make it a thrill-ride that readily subverts expectations at every turn.

Having struggled to find a robust audience during its initial run on Lifetime, Netflix could prove to be a different story. YOU's binge-worthy setup should make it one of the most buzzed-about entries of winter. Being able to go from episode-to-episode will be an element that goes in its favor for new viewers.

There were many times while watching it unfold week-to-week where it more than lent itself to pressing "next episode." In truth, every episode of Season 1 funnels itself into the next with ease. Not a series to take a rest, YOU's first season just keeps ramping up the pressure.

Thank goodness for Netflix: a platform that does give freshman shows a chance to find an audience that may have missed it initially. Were it not for Netflix, the low ratings could have been enough for YOU to end up a show that was cancelled way too soon. Thankfully, fans will not have to worry about that for now.

YOU has what it takes to become a pop culture sensation. Time will tell if that can happen. As does whether Penn Badgley's awards-worthy turn receives the merit it deserves. Here is to staying tuned!

Catch up on one of the year's best when YOU premieres December 26 on Netflix. The thriller is among many shows arriving this fall and throughout the midseason on the streamer.

Lifetime has released the first trailer for its upcoming series YOU starring Gossip Girl vet Penn Badgley. Be warned; he is playing a very, very, very creepy character. The new series is still a ways off, but this first look should hold you over a little until it premieres later this year. Check it out!

YOU chronicles the budding romance between Joseph (Penn Badgley), a bookstore manager, and aspiring writer (Elizabeth Lail), which takes a dark and obsessive turn. As the relationship continues, things take an even darker twist as Joseph turns to social media as a means of gathering intimate details about the object of his affections. If you thought Dan Humphrey was creepy, Badgley's YOU character takes it to new heights. Unlike Gossip Girl, YOU will not waste any time revealing the depth of its character's depravity.

Based on the trailer alone, YOU should have you obsessed with it pretty quickly. The show looks like The Girl on the Train's cinematography blended with the story from the podcast, Dirty John. YOU may be to social media what Sandra Bullock's The Net was to computers. While there have been cautionary tales about most every subject, social media has arguably yet to really receive the "you've been warned" treatment.

The series marks Penn Badgley's first TV role since Gossip Girl ended in 2012. It also marks actress Shay Mitchell's return to television following Pretty Little Liars, which ended in 2017. Mitchell played the role of Emily Fields on the long-running Freeform mystery drama. In YOU, Mitchell stars as the protective friend of the lead protagonist who wants to leave the friend zone.

If lead actress Elizabeth Lail seems familiar as well, there is a good reason. You may recognize Lail from her performance as Anna in Once Upon a Time's Frozen storyline, as well as the short-lived Freeform series Dead of Summer. As for John Stamos, do not get too excited about his prospects on the series. So far, the actor is only slated to make an "appearance" on the show.

The downside of social media as will be explored in YOU is territory that Gossip Girl never fully addressed. Another thing Gossip Girl never really did was play to Penn Badgley's strengths as an actor, something YOU seems prepared to do. Up until the end, Dan Humphrey was always presented as a near-saint, despite many bad decisions. This approach restricted the ability for the role to grow and denied Badgley a chance to show off his range with it. YOU appears primed to capitalize on Badgley's skills to do just that, as Joseph shows one face to his girlfriend and another behind closed doors.

With a captivating trailer that plays over a slow cover of Cheap Trick's "I Want You to Want Me," YOU may already have you hooked. When does fall get here? YOU premieres on Lifetime, September 9 at 10 p.m. ET. To keep up with other shows coming up in the not-so-distant future check out our guide to TV's midseason and summer premieres.

Penn Badgley was a big name on the CW scene for years as Dan Humphrey on Gossip Girl. He was a main player on that series up until its finale in 2012, and he hasn't done much on the small screen in the years since. Now, he's poised to make a big return to TV with a brand new project. Badgley will star in the new show called You for Lifetime.

You will be a psychological thriller that follows an intellectual bookstore owner named Joe after he happens upon an aspiring writer. Using social media and the Internet, Joe obsessively gathers information about the woman he thinks he loves. What starts as awkward and slightly charming escalates into something more sinister as he does whatever it takes to get rid of anything and anyone who gets between him and the object of his desire. Penn Badgley will play Joe. TVLine reports that the aspiring writer character has not yet been cast.

Lifetime has shown a great deal of faith in You from the outset. The network gave a straight-to-series order for ten episodes right off the bat, forgoing the traditional pilot process before the leads had even been cast. Of course, considering the folks who are bringing You to life, it's not difficult to see why Lifetime would be optimistic about it. The project hails from super-producer Greg Berlanti of The Flash and Sera Gamble of The Magicians. These are two people who know how to both make hit TV shows and craft narratives. Berlanti and Gamble wrote for the first season and will serve as co-showrunners on You.

The series will be based on a best-selling novel of the same name, written by author Caroline Kepnes. You was actually her very first novel, so kudos to Kepnes for landing a Lifetime TV show right out of the gate. Interestingly, this is the second time that a network has been working on bringing the novel characters to life on the small screen. A show based on You was in development at Showtime back in 2015, with Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble at the helm. That version ultimately never got off the ground, making the Lifetime version the very first time that the novel is adapted for TV.

A big question now is who will play the writer who becomes the object to Joe's desire. Hopefully we'll find out the actress who landed the part in the not-too-distant future. Now that they have Penn Badgley as the male lead, perhaps casting the female lead will be somewhat easier. We'll have to wait and see. Check out our summer TV guide and our 2017 Netflix premiere schedule for everything you can watch now and in the coming weeks. If you're in need of a Penn Badgley fix as soon as possible, all six seasons of Gossip GIrl are currently available on Netflix.

As though having names like Frank Langella, Gena Rowlands, Rosario Dawson and Josh Hartnett attached to the project wasn't enough, Parts Per Billions - the new ensemble film from director Brian Horiuchi - has added a few more notable names to its cast. It was announced today that Penn Badgley, Teresa Palmer, Alexis Bledel and Hill Harper have all taken parts in the project, which is already in production. They are currently filming up in Detroit and will be working through Christmas.

Horiuchi's directorial debut (he previously wrote the 2009 horror flick Circle of Eight) the new project is structured with interwoven stories a la Magnolia and Crash. The plot is set before a disastrous biological war as three separate couples are faced with life-altering decisions. The press release doesn't say who any of the actors will be playing, but it was previously revealed that the characters names will be Len, Mia, Andy, Esther, Anna and Erik. The film doesn't appear to have a distributor yet, but Celluloid Nightmares is handling world sales rights.

Anyone notice the strange number of Sin City actors in this mix? Frank Miller and Robert Rodriguez have gotten back together to make the sequel, A Dame To Kill For, so perhaps Dawson, Bledel and Hartnett felt it was an appropriate time for a reunion. As of now Dawson is the only one out of the group who will actually appear in the follow-up, but it's still interesting to see them grouping together seven years after they first came together.

Everyone is looking fairly serious on the poster for the upcoming film Margin Call, as well they should be. Based on a true story, Margin Call follows a crucial day in the life of an investment bank during the start of the financial crisis back in 2008. That alone sounds interesting, but it’s the cast, which consists of a number of actors who have, quite literally, given me goosebumps in previous performances, that really sell this film. Fortunately, most of the notable names are featured on the poster.

Margin Call‘s excellent cast includes Kevin Spacey, Stanley Tucci Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Zachary Quinto, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell and Demi Moore. The trailer had me at the first sight of Stanley Tucci. I’d watch that man read the back of a shampoo bottle. I could probably say the same for Spacey, Irons, Quinto and just about everyone else shown on the poster. While Mary McDonnell doesn’t appear on this poster, as a Battlestar Galactica fan, I’m happy to see her name on the cast-list nonetheless.

IMDB has a previously released teaser-poster, which features what looks like a line-graph, which likely signifies the falling stock market, or perhaps something a bit more specific to what’s going on in the story. This latest poster not only gives us a look at the stern faces of the cast, but it also bears a cold message.

“Be first. Be Smarter. Or Cheat.” - Words to get rich by.

View the high-res version of the poster and the trailer for Margin Call here.