Leighton Marissa Claire Meester (born April 9, 1986) is an American actress and aspiring Singer-Songwriter, best known for her role as Blair Waldorf in the TV show Gossip Girl.[1] Her first acting role on a television program was on NBC's legal drama Law & Order in 1999.[2] Other series in which Meester has appeared include Surface, Entourage, CSI: Miami,[3] 8 Simple Rules, 24,[4] 7th Heaven,[5] and House.[6]
Blair Cornelia Waldorf is the main character of the Gossip Girl franchise,[1] introduced in the original book series and appearing in the television adaptation of the same name. She was created by the series' original author, Cecily von Ziegesar. Blair, whose actions and relations are frequently followed by the mysterious Gossip Girl, is a privileged young woman born to high society on Manhattan's Upper East Side.
The television character, played by Leighton Meester, has gained a degree of notability for her popular wardrobe. As a result, her styles and outfits have received real-life coverage or recognition from various periodicals.[2]
Both the author and television actress have openly commented on the character's motivations. According to Meester, some of Blair's biggest vices are her "insecurities" with regard to her social status, which often make her an overachiever.[3] This is partly due to a certain degree of jealousy she feels toward her friend and occasional rival, Serena. At times, these insecurities create what von Ziegesar labels "flaws and complexities" which contribute to character development.[1] One of Blair's most noticeable issues is an apparently snobbish persona. However, it is suggested that this is a byproduct of her attempts to maintain social prominence, and does not represent the entirety of her personality. In Meester's view, the true Blair is a "good girl" who possesses a more sensitive and good-natured center.[4]
Blair Cornelia Waldorf is the main character of the Gossip Girl franchise,[1] introduced in the original book series and appearing in the television adaptation of the same name. She was created by the series' original author, Cecily von Ziegesar. Blair, whose actions and relations are frequently followed by the mysterious Gossip Girl, is a privileged young woman born to high society on Manhattan's Upper East Side.
The television character, played by Leighton Meester, has gained a degree of notability for her popular wardrobe. As a result, her styles and outfits have received real-life coverage or recognition from various periodicals.[2]
Both the author and television actress have openly commented on the character's motivations. According to Meester, some of Blair's biggest vices are her "insecurities" with regard to her social status, which often make her an overachiever.[3] This is partly due to a certain degree of jealousy she feels toward her friend and occasional rival, Serena. At times, these insecurities create what von Ziegesar labels "flaws and complexities" which contribute to character development.[1] One of Blair's most noticeable issues is an apparently snobbish persona. However, it is suggested that this is a byproduct of her attempts to maintain social prominence, and does not represent the entirety of her personality. In Meester's view, the true Blair is a "good girl" who possesses a more sensitive and good-natured center.[4]