Penn Badgley

Biography: Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Badgley split his childhood years between Richmond, Virginia and Seattle, Washington. While studying at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma, Washington, he was involved in Seattle's Children's Theatre. Penn did voice-overs for a children's radio station. He was also involved in the Pine Nut Players community theater in Monroe.

It was through these experiences that Badgley discovered his love of acting. This passion brought him one summer to Hollywood, where he landed an agent. His first big break guest-starring on Will and Grace, which was also his acting debut on the small screen. After relocating with his mother to Los Angeles, Badgley secured several recurring roles on The Young and the Restless, The Borthers Garcia, and Daddio. His film debut was in the movie The Fluffer in 2001.

In 2007, Badgley was cast in a regular role as Dan Humphrey in the CW drama Gossip Girl. When he's not in Manhattan filming for the show, Penn lives in Los Angeles, California. When not working, he attends Santa Monica City College, having completed his California High School Proficiency Exam. Also musically gifted, he enjoys singing, writing, and playing the guitar. In his spare time, Badgley likes to go surfing, skiing, and snowboarding. He also enjoys playing the piano.

Penn's starring in Forever Strong due out in 2008. He's also starring in the remake of the '80s thriller The Stepfather.… Expand