“Gossip Girl” is one of the most iconic shows of our generation… but we all know an iconic show isn’t complete without its behind-the-scenes drama. Since the show began 18 years ago, Leighton Meester and Blake Lively, who play the lead roles of Serena Van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf, have faced rumors of a feud. Although the show ended in 2012, drama continues to follow the actresses. With Blake Lively’s most recent scandal regarding “It Ends With Us,” the internet is reigniting the rivalry… and this time the public is switching sides.
Rumors of A Feud On The “Gossip Girl” Set
Rumors of a feud between the actresses have been swirling since as early as 2008. After visiting the set, New York Magazine claimed Meester and Lively “avoid each other like the plague.” Three years later, insiders alleged that Meester’s wardrobe budget had increased, which caused Lively to feel jealous and betrayed.
In response to these rumors, Lively’s publicist issued a statement, explaining Blake and Leighton were not best friends and had never claimed to be. “Gossip Girl” executive producer Joshua Safran also added that they were “friendly,” but not friends.
One popular explanation for their strained relationship is their difference in personalities. According to those on set, Lively was more social, while Meester often kept to herself and was “removed.”
The Cancellation of Blake Lively
Blake Lively’s newest movie “It Ends With Us,” released this past summer, tackles several deep issues such as domestic violence. However, instead of discussing why the issues in the film are significant, Lively used the press tour for the movie as an opportunity to promote her new haircare line, Blake Brown. She also told viewers to “wear their florals,” and created the expectation that the movie was similar to a romantic comedy. Her attitude was heavily criticized for being tone-deaf.
In addition, past interviews of Lively have resurfaced that paint her in an unflattering light. For example, one interviewer congratulated her on her pregnancy, to which Lively defensively replied, “congrats on your little bump.” This example is just one of many instances where she was scrutinized for being rude and unprofessional.
Why The Public is Switching Sides
By analyzing her relationships with former co-stars, fans are trying to understand if Lively’s behavior is a pattern. This leads us to Leighton Meester, her most well-known “frenemy.”
Since “Gossip Girl,” Meester has led a quiet lifestyle. Two years after the show finished airing, she married Adam Brody, with whom she shares two children. The couple has always valued their privacy and rarely make appearances at public events. Meester is also not very active on social media, only posting promotions for upcoming projects.
Fans have observed the stark contrast between Lively and Meester’s lifestyles and how these lifestyles have impacted their reputations. Although Meester is private, she is perceived as more professional and respectful than Lively. Her low-key lifestyle is also considered more down-to-earth and relatable. This has led the internet to switch over to “Team Blair” in the never-ending Blair vs. Serena saga. For example, one X user wrote: “It’s justice time for Leighton—she deserves more recognition!”
Adam Brody and Leighton Meester: Hollywood’s New Favorite Couple
In addition to her career, fans have also admired Lively’s relationship with actor Ryan Reynolds. They have been referred to as a “power couple” multiple times. By repeatedly and publicly supporting each other’s endeavors, many believed that they were one of the few genuine couples in Hollywood.
However, with the fall of Lively’s reputation, many are questioning the amount of praise the Reynolds-Lively relationship receives. Fans are starting to gravitate toward Brody and Meester, asserting that they’re the real “power couple.” Their privacy allows them to focus on projects that they are truly passionate about, while prioritizing spending time with their kids. Unlike Lively and Reynolds, Brody and Meester don’t flaunt their relationship on every social media platform. Their bond is undeniably authentic through their simple interactions.
Are you team Lively or team Meester? Let us know @VALLEYmag on X!
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