Penn Badgley’s Journey: From Teen Heartthrob to Chilling Narrator
WARNING: This article contains spoilers from You on Netflix.
Penn Badgley is ready to delight—and terrify—audiences one last time in his iconic role as Joe Goldberg. Now, as we gear up for the gripping final season of You, fans are eager to delve into the many layers of Badgley’s fascinating life, which has been peppered with on-screen intrigue and off-screen romances, including his role in the beloved teen drama Gossip Girl and his tumultuous relationship with co-star Blake Lively.
From Comedy to Chills: A Humble Beginning
Penn Badgley’s acting journey commenced as a child star on the iconic sitcom Will and Grace. Back in 1999, he stepped into the shoes of Todd, a young bully—a far cry from the charming but chilling persona he embodies today. Fans of the show will recall the episode titled “I Never Promised You An Olive Garden”, where Badgley’s character encounters Jack (played by Sean Hayes), making waves long before he was a household name.
Enduring Challenges: Battling Body Dysmorphia
As Badgley’s career soared, so did the challenges. He landed a role in The Young and the Restless at just 14, but the industry pressure took a toll. Speaking candidly to The Guardian, Badgley revealed how acting became an escape during his parents’ divorce, yet it also ignited a fierce battle with body dysmorphia. “I hated my body and simply wanted a different one,” he confessed, shedding light on the superficial nature of Hollywood that perpetuates these insecurities.
The Gossip Girl Connection
Fast forward to 2007, when Badgley took on the role of Dan Humphrey in Gossip Girl, instantly becoming a fan favorite. Surprisingly, he initially hesitated to accept the role. “I didn’t want to do it. I was pretty certain I didn’t want to do any more television,” Badgley shared with Capital FM. It was only after the creators’ persistent encouragement that he finally agreed—and the rest is history.
Penn Badgley and Blake Lively as Dan and Serena in Gossip Girl
(Image: WARNER BROS TELEVISION)
The Blake Lively Chapter
During his time on Gossip Girl, Badgley famously dated co-star Blake Lively, a whirlwind romance that lasted three years before they parted ways in 2010. The relationship was marked by secrecy, remaining hidden from their castmates until long after their break-up. “I found out on the set of the season two finale that Blake and Penn had broken up months before,” executive producer Joshua Safran shared with Vanity Fair.
Confronting Darkness in You
Despite the allure of romance in You, the series dives deep into the dark recesses of the human psyche. Badgley, portraying the charming yet sinister Joe Goldberg, has faced his share of intense scenes. He candidly admitted on Late Night With Seth Meyers that certain graphic moments can be overwhelming. “I’ve spontaneously become nauseous,” he revealed, at times using this discomfort to channel Joe’s character effectively.
A New Chapter: Family Life
Beyond the screen, Badgley finds solace in his family life with British-American singer Domino Kirke, sister of HBO’s Girls star Jemima Kirke. The couple’s love blossomed from a chance meeting at a meatball shop in 2014, and they tied the knot in a New York courthouse in 2017. Recently, they revealed the glorious news that they are expecting twins, as their family’s story continues to unfold.
You is available for streaming on Netflix.
From his early comedic roles to his chilling portrayal of a serial killer, Penn Badgley’s journey through Hollywood is nothing short of captivating. As he prepares to bid farewell to Joe Goldberg, fans can’t help but reflect on the many facets of this charming yet complex actor.
