Introduction
Blake Lively is a name synonymous with talent, beauty, and charisma in Hollywood. Rising to fame as Serena van der Woodsen in the hit TV series Gossip Girl, Lively quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has transitioned seamlessly from television to the big screen, starring in a variety of films across different genres.
In this article, we’ll explore Blake Lively’s most popular movies and TV shows, highlighting the roles that defined her career and her journey as an actress.
Blake Lively’s Breakthrough Role: Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
Blake Lively’s breakout role came when she was cast as Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, a drama series based on the books by Cecily von Ziegesar. The show, which aired on The CW from 2007 to 2012, followed the glamorous lives of wealthy teenagers living on the Upper East Side of New York City.
Lively’s portrayal of Serena, a fashionable and complicated socialite, made her a household name. Her chemistry with co-star Penn Badgley (who played Dan Humphrey) and her friendship with Leighton Meester’s character, Blair Waldorf, became the heart of the show.

Why Gossip Girl Was a Career Game-Changer:
- The show was a cultural phenomenon, making Lively a fashion icon.
- It provided her with global recognition and a strong fanbase.
- It helped open doors to Hollywood movie roles.
Even though Gossip Girl ended in 2012, it remains one of the most iconic teen dramas, and Lively’s role as Serena is still widely remembered.
Blake Lively’s Notable Movies
After her success on Gossip Girl, Blake Lively transitioned to the big screen, proving her versatility as an actress. Here are some of her most notable films:
1. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005 & 2008)
Before Gossip Girl, Lively had her first major film role in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005). She played Bridget Vreeland, a confident and athletic teenager who embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery.
The film, based on Ann Brashares’ novel, was a success, leading to a sequel in 2008. Lively’s performance was well-received, and the film remains a beloved classic.
2. The Town (2010)
One of Lively’s most critically acclaimed films is The Town, directed by and starring Ben Affleck. She played Krista Coughlin, a troubled single mother with ties to a group of bank robbers.
This role was a significant departure from her glamorous Gossip Girl image, showing her ability to portray gritty and complex characters. Her performance earned praise from critics, proving that she was more than just a TV star.
3. Green Lantern (2011)
In 2011, Lively starred opposite Ryan Reynolds in the superhero film Green Lantern, playing Carol Ferris. While the movie received mixed reviews, it was a pivotal moment in Lively’s life, as she met her future husband, Ryan Reynolds, on set.
Although Green Lantern wasn’t a box office hit, it added a blockbuster film to Lively’s resume.
4. Savages (2012)
Lively took on a daring role in Savages, an action thriller directed by Oliver Stone. She played Ophelia “O” Sage, a free-spirited woman caught in the crossfire of a dangerous drug war.
The film allowed Lively to showcase her range as an actress in a dark and intense setting.
5. The Age of Adaline (2015)
One of Lively’s most beloved films is The Age of Adaline, where she played Adaline Bowman, a woman who mysteriously stops aging after an accident.
This romantic fantasy film received positive reviews, with Lively’s elegant and timeless performance earning her widespread acclaim. It cemented her reputation as a leading actress in Hollywood.
6. The Shallows (2016)
In The Shallows, Lively played Nancy Adams, a surfer trapped in shark-infested waters.
The survival thriller was a box office success, with Lively carrying the film almost entirely on her own. Critics praised her performance, calling it one of the strongest of her career.
7. A Simple Favor (2018)
Lively teamed up with Anna Kendrick for A Simple Favor, a mystery thriller directed by Paul Feig. She played Emily Nelson, a sophisticated and mysterious woman who suddenly disappears.
The film was both a critical and commercial success, with Lively’s stylish and enigmatic performance earning her praise.
8. The Rhythm Section (2020)
In The Rhythm Section, Lively took on the role of Stephanie Patrick, a woman seeking revenge after her family is killed in a plane crash.
While the film did not perform well at the box office, Lively’s gritty and intense performance was one of its highlights.

Upcoming Projects
Blake Lively continues to take on exciting roles. Some of her upcoming projects include:
1. It Ends With Us (2024 – Upcoming)
Lively is set to star in the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, It Ends With Us. She will play Lily Bloom, the lead character in this highly anticipated romance drama.
2. Lady Killer (TBA – Upcoming)
Lively will also star in Lady Killer, based on the Dark Horse Comics series about a 1950s housewife who leads a secret life as an assassin.
These projects indicate that Lively is continuing to expand her career with bold and exciting roles.
Blake Lively’s Impact on Hollywood
Beyond her acting career, Blake Lively has made an impact in several ways:
- Fashion Icon: She is known for her impeccable style and regularly graces red carpets.
- Director and Producer: Lively is expanding into directing and producing, showing her talent behind the camera.
- Advocate for Women in Film: She actively supports female-led films and projects.
Conclusion
Blake Lively’s career has been nothing short of impressive, from her early days on Gossip Girl to her diverse film roles in thrillers, dramas, and romantic fantasies. She has proven herself as a versatile and talented actress, taking on roles that challenge her range and showcase her skills.
With exciting upcoming projects on the horizon, Lively’s career continues to thrive, and she remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
Blake Lively Movies and TV Shows: A Look at Her Career from Gossip Girl to Hollywood Stardom – FAQ
1. What is Blake Lively’s most famous TV show?
Blake Lively is best known for playing Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl (2007-2012), a hit teen drama that made her a household name.
2. What was Blake Lively’s first major movie role?
Her first major film role was as Bridget Vreeland in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005), which became a popular coming-of-age film.
3. What are some of Blake Lively’s best movies?
Some of her most notable films include:
- The Town (2010)
- The Age of Adaline (2015)
- The Shallows (2016)
- A Simple Favor (2018)
- The Rhythm Section (2020)
4. Did Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds meet while filming a movie?
Yes, Blake Lively met her husband, Ryan Reynolds, on the set of Green Lantern (2011). They later started dating and got married in 2012.
5. What is Blake Lively’s most critically acclaimed performance?
Her role in The Town (2010), where she played a troubled single mother, was widely praised by critics.
6. What thriller movies has Blake Lively starred in?
She has starred in several thrillers, including Savages (2012), The Shallows (2016), A Simple Favor (2018), and The Rhythm Section (2020).

7. What are Blake Lively’s upcoming movies?
She is set to star in It Ends With Us (2024) and Lady Killer (TBA), both highly anticipated films.
8. Has Blake Lively won any major acting awards?
While she has received critical acclaim, she has not won major acting awards like an Oscar or Golden Globe yet. However, she has been nominated for several Teen Choice Awards and Critics’ Choice Awards.
9. Is Blake Lively involved in directing or producing?
Yes, she has expressed interest in directing and producing, and she is actively expanding her career beyond acting.
10. What makes Blake Lively a Hollywood icon?
Her versatile acting, fashion influence, and strong screen presence have made her one of Hollywood’s most admired and successful actresses.
What movie made Blake Lively famous?
Blake Lively rose to fame with her role as Bridget Vreeland in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005), a coming-of-age film that introduced her to a wider audience. However, it was her portrayal of Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl (2007-2012) that truly made her a household name. The hit teen drama showcased her charisma, style, and acting talent, turning her into a fashion icon and one of the most recognizable TV stars of the late 2000s. From there, she successfully transitioned to Hollywood films, proving her versatility in a variety of roles.
