Chace Crawford Reflects on Career Struggles After ‘Gossip Girl’: An Inside Look
Chace Crawford, best known for his charming portrayal of Nate Archibald on the iconic series Gossip Girl, has opened up about his career journey post-stardom. In a candid discussion on the Good Guys podcast hosted by Josh Peck and Ben Soffer, Crawford revealed the challenges he faced in the industry after the show’s massive success.
From Fame to Feeling Trapped
After the glitzy heights of Gossip Girl, which ran from 2007 to 2012, Crawford found himself in what he described as a “box.” He expressed feeling “trapped” and confined to the label of a "CW pretty boy," a term often associated with a lack of depth in acting roles.
“First of all, [people] think actors make a ton more money and have way more agency than we actually do, depending on where you are [in your career]. I felt like I was in the wilderness for years after Gossip Girl," he shared.
The Harsh Reality of Fame
Despite the show’s overwhelming popularity, Crawford noted the difficulty of transitioning into new roles. The stark reality is that stardom can sometimes become a double-edged sword.
“As big of a show as it was, coming off [it] as a still young guy, it’s like, ‘That’s not cool anymore,’ and I’m in this box,” he lamented.
This sentiment was echoed in his reflections on how entering the industry as a young, successful actor often leads to immense pressure and unrealistic expectations.
Fighting Against Typecasting
Before landing his role as The Deep in Prime Video’s The Boys in 2019, Crawford struggled to find substantial roles. He had brief stints in ABC’s Blood & Oil and Hulu’s Casual, but they barely scratched the surface of his potential as an actor.
“It was not lost on me how difficult after those four years of false starts on some TV shows … like, it could be difficult to find another thing,” he recalled, shedding light on the hurdles actors face when trying to break free from their initial brand.
A Turn for the Better: Landing The Deep
Crawford found reprieve with his role in The Boys, which he described as both "wild" and "original." Upon reading the script, he felt an immediate connection and was excited to bring The Deep to life.
“I was really, really appreciative when this happened,” he reflected, grateful for the chance to showcase his talent in a complex character.
Looking Ahead: The Future of The Boys
Now in its fourth season, The Boys continues to captivate audiences with its darkly comic take on superheroes. Fans can look forward to the fifth and final season, set to air in 2026. Additionally, the show’s spinoff, Gen V, has already garnered attention with two successful seasons since its debut.
Conclusion
Chace Crawford’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles many actors face, even those who reach the heights of fame. From feeling boxed in after Gossip Girl to embracing a multifaceted character in The Boys, Crawford’s story reflects resilience and the relentless pursuit of artistry.
For more insights into the world of Hollywood and career struggles, stay tuned for updates on your favorite stars and their journeys.
For further exploration of Chace Crawford’s roles, check out his profile on IMDb!
