What Happened To Gossip Girl?

Last December 2022, HBO Max dropped a reboot for the popularly acclaimed Gossip Girl. Season 1 was already so different from the original that many fans turned their back on it. The original show from 2007, with Serena Van der Woodsen (Blake Lively), Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester), Chuck Bass (Ed Westchick), Dan Humphrey (Peyton Badgley), and Jenny Humphrey (Taylor Momsen), entertained a whole generation. Which holds this Drama to a high standard. As one part of the fanbase myself, yes, it was underwhelming. Maybe we missed the old cast? Which was totally anticipated. That nostalgia was fed by the iconic Eleanor Waldorf’s (Margaret Colin) appearance, along with Cyrus (Wallace Shawn) and Dorota (Zuzanna Szadkowski), as well as an odd introduction to Evil Queen Georgina (Michelle Trachtenberg)’s son, Milo. But as fans, as the audience, we must let go of the old version to understand this one. Because the foremost and most important thing is that Gossip Girl is back with a new season, now streaming on HBO! 

No More Flip Phones!

Good day, Upper East Siders! Don’t we feel a little old? Times have changed! These nostalgic devices played an essential part in the plot of the show’s original version. The reboot took a modern approach. Smartphones and Instagram became the new mask of Gossip Girl. But how did those elements impact the plot? Times have changed, and that doesn’t mean the spirit of the show should. Many fans directly associate the show with the early 2000s, and witnessing changes as such could cause some shock, or even tears, as we remember our early teens and gracefully accept the passage of time. In both portrayals of Gossip Girl, technology can shine a light on the socialites’ greed and lust for power (and one another). With the difference that now tips will get in faster, better quality pictures, it will be a dangerous playing ground. This time their secrets will be all over Instagram…

Photograph by Karolina Wojtasik/HBO Max

Who is Gossip Girl?

Let’s Talk Fashion!

Is Blair Waldorf back? Well, not exactly… Leighton Meester is not involved in the reboot, but the name Blair Waldorf remains, present, alive, and still relevant. Talking about relevance, she is still the defining fashion idol. Her headband footprint has also made an impact on this new version. This season we will see more vigorous enforcement of Contance’s uniforms, which makes a huge wink to the original aesthetic of the show. Season 2 recreates many of the previous aesthetics in a slightly contemporary way. Waldorf’s essence can also be found in at least two characters, Monet de Haan (Savannah Lee Smith) and Audrey Hope (Emily Alyn Lind).

If you’re looking for an aesthetic fashion inspired by Gossip Girl, HBO Max has some great options for you. From Blair Waldorf’s signature headbands to Serena van der Woodsen’s fashionable ensembles, you can find a variety of looks to create a classic and modern style. Try incorporating some of the bold colors and prints from the show for a truly unique look. Don’t forget to accessorize with statement jewelry and luxurious fabrics to complete the look.

Which Version is Better? 

That’s a tough one! It’s hard to say if the HBO version of Gossip Girl is better or worse than the original. While the HBO version has updated the show’s storylines, themes, and characters to reflect the modern era, the original series also has a unique charm. Ultimately, it’s up to the viewer to decide which version they prefer. That said, as an early 2000s kid, I would argue that the original Gossip Girl is definitely better. Even though Season 1 was slightly disappointing, this new season hits differently. So, I think the new Gossip Girl is entertaining and fun in its own way. It’s a significant modern update, and I appreciate the original show’s references. It’s definitely worth watching!