Overview

• Penn Badgley revealed on the Call Her Daddy podcast that he became financially independent at 15 but was 'close to broke' before taking the role of Dan Humphrey on Gossip Girl.
• He initially turned down the role due to disillusionment with Hollywood but accepted it for financial stability and the opportunity to live in New York City.
• Badgley shared that his early 20s were marked by difficulty separating his identity from his character, which affected his self-worth and public perception.
• His on-screen and off-screen relationship with co-star Blake Lively added complexity to his personal and professional life during the show's six-season run.
• Now promoting the final season of Netflix's You, Badgley reflected on the enduring legacy of Gossip Girl and its influence on his career trajectory.