Before Blake Lively was doyenne of the now-defunct Preserve (opens in new tab), she was a young actress coming off the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and that Justin Long vehicle about a fake college. When she read for the part of Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, she might not have known it was to be her breakout role, but as you can see in the recently uncovered audition tape, she had a certain something—even at just 20 years old.
In the scene, the upstart squad leader (opens in new tab) catches up with Blair after returning from boarding-school exile, asking after her family (Dad: left wife for another man; Mom: lost 15 pounds, got eye-lift) and pleading with her to let things go back to the way they used to be.
Fat chance of that, as we and *stage whispers* FREAKING DAN HUMPHREY know, but observe a star in the making nonetheless. Watch the video here.
Follow Marie Claire on Instagram for the latest celeb news, pretty pics, funny stuff, and an insider POV.
-
16 Breezy Linen Dresses for SummerThe closest thing to wearing nothing.
-
The 30 Best Korean Dramas on Netflix Right Now
For those dipping their toes into the vast world of dramas beyond 'Squid Game.'
-
JVN Hair Is Having an Unreal Memorial Day Sale
You’re going to want the Air Dry Cream for upcoming beach days.
-
The 50 Best Love Songs of All Time
The best, most romantic love songs ever written, spanning every genre.
-
The 80 Best Romantic Comedies of All Time
Where does your fave fall on the list?
-
The 15 Best Comedy Movies on Hulu
For when you just need a good laugh.
-
90 Movies You Have to Watch at Least Once in Your Life
The essentials. (Netflix password not included.)
-
The 79 Best '90s Movies That Are Modern Classics
Truly the golden age of cinema.
-
The 50 Best Feel-Good Movies to Curl Up With
PJs, a glass of wine, and these films.
-
The 51 Best Musical Movies to Get You Singing
All the dance numbers! All the show tunes!
-
The 52 Best Comedy TV Shows Ever
The shows that will make you laugh until your face hurts.
