Blake Lively commemorated 18 years since the debut of the renowned series, “Gossip Girl,” with a special tribute to her late co-star Michelle Trachtenberg. The 38-year-old actress shared a series of never-before-seen photos on Instagram, set to the tune of Peter Bjorn and John’s “Young Folks,” capturing candid moments from the iconic show’s behind-the-scenes life.
The images unveiled intimate interactions with her co-stars, such as Leighton Meester, who portrayed her on-screen best friend, Blair Waldorf. One snapshot depicted a heartwarming embrace between the duo, reflecting the strong bond central to the beloved series.
The photo collection also showcased off-set fun with the cast and crew, including a birthday celebration at a bowling alley and playful moments with co-star Chace Crawford on a giant inflatable. Notably, the photos featured Ed Westwick and Penn Badgley, highlighting the camaraderie among the cast.
However, it was the inclusion of Michelle Trachtenberg that resonated emotionally with fans. Trachtenberg, known for her role as Georgina Sparks, passed away earlier this year at the age of 39. Lively paid tribute to her, describing Trachtenberg as a vibrant and unforgettable presence, emphasizing her passion, loyalty, and unique personality.
Reflecting on her time on “Gossip Girl,” Lively likened the experience to a transformative learning journey, where co-stars evolved into a close-knit family. Created by Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, the show premiered in 2007, running for six seasons and leaving a lasting impact on pop culture.
Lively’s archival photos served as a poignant celebration of the show’s enduring legacy and continued popularity among newer audiences, keeping the nostalgia of the 2000s alive.