Jennifer Lawrence Auditioned for Blake Lively’s “Gossip Girl” Role As a Teen

Desiree O
Sep 15, 2017

The 10th anniversary of Gossip Girl has inspired all kinds of nostalgic reflection from the people behind the scenes, including the revelation that Blake Lively originally turned down the career-launching role of Serena van der Woodsen. She changed her mind, of course, but she wasn’t the only now-A-list actress who auditioned: Jennifer Lawrence apparently went after the part too.

“We did not realize this at the time, but Jennifer Lawrence really wanted to play Serena and auditioned,” Josh Schwartz, the creator of Gossip Girl, revealed to Vulture.

Lawrence obviously went on to have an incredible career, but we can’t help but wonder how Hollywood history would have been changed if she’d gotten the part over Lively. Seriously, who knows what might have been if JLaw had gotten her big break on Gossip Girl? Maybe Lively would have ended up as X-Men’s Mystique.

“This story came to [me and GG co-creator Stephanie Savage] secondhand, but we were told she definitely auditioned and was bummed to not get it,” Schwartz added. (Lawrence would have been 16 years old at the time, so a starring gig on Gossip Girl could have solidified her status as a Hollywood “It girl” just the way it did for Lively.)

While Schwartz said he doesn’t recall her audition — “We can’t remember if we saw it or not. It was 10 years ago, and she would’ve been how old, 15?” — he revealed that it likely wouldn’t have mattered if Lawrence had nailed it or failed it as he and Savage were already set on Lively for the role.

But, oh, what could have been.

Do you think Jennifer Lawrence could have played Serena van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl? Let us know @BritandCo!

(Photos via Kevin Winter/Getty Images + James Devaney/WireImage)

Monica Barbaro & Andrew Garfield's Latest Outing Could Confirm They're Dating

Andrew Garfield's relationship status is always a swoon-worthy topic. Whether he's gushing about how Emma Stone is like a shot of caffeine, he's getting flustered talking to Chicken Shop Date's Amelia Dimoldenberg, or he's kissing Demi Moore on the hand, this man is always making me blush. But it looks like he might not be single anymore if some recent outings with Monica Barbaro are any indication — including a post-Oscars party!

While neither Andrew nor Monica have spoken on the relationship rumors, a People source confirmed "they've been really lowkey and have been spending time together quietly"...and Monica shared a pretty funny moment with Amelia on the Oscars red carpet.

Here's what we know about those Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro relationship rumors.

March 16, 2025 — Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro are seen grocery shopping.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by curators of pop culture (@deuxmoi)

This duo definitely fanned the flames of those couple rumors when they were spotted grocery shopping in Malibu. A very realistic, domestic, and relatable Sunday! I also went grocery shopping this day, so it looks like we were on the same page ;).

Andrew wore a white tee and jeans while Monica looks cozy in a white tank and green cardigan. Both wore baseball caps. "I like that they are humble and buy the same TP as me," one Instagram user commented. Same.

March 2, 2025 — Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro attend an Oscar afterparty together.

After the Oscars on March 2, Monica Barbaro and Andrew Garfield left the Vanity Fair after party together...and showed up to Beyoncé and Jay-Z's after party. No big deal! Monica wore a strapless gown with gorgeous teardrop jewel detail while Andrew looks dapper in a deep gray suit.

They also happened to arrive at the Oscars red carpet at the same time...and Monica was sitting in Andrew's eye line the whole night. What a coincidence!

February 2025 — Monica Barbaro & Andrew Garfield attend Jonathan Bailey's play.

The two went viral on February 20 when they showed up to Jonathan Bailey's Richard II at the Bridge Theatre, and I'm obsessed with how locked in he is on their conversation. This man is an attentive listener if I've ever seen one!

January 2025 — Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro are photographed together.

Andrew and Monica were first seen together at W magazine's Best Performances party, alongside Eddie Redmayne and W's editor-at-large Lynn Hirschberg, in LA. They were already getting cozy!

What do you think about Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro? I'm personally obsessed. Stay tuned for the latest news on this low-key couple! And check out Zoë Kravitz & Noah Centineo Fuel Dating Rumors After Leaving Another Party Together because Andrew & Monica weren't the only ones hanging this month 👀.

This post has been updated.

celebrity couplespop culturedatingcelebrity

20 Blue Zone Diet Recipes That Give Your Meals A Healthy Kick

The blue zone diet is undeniably one of the best ways of eating for overall health and longevity. It draws culinary inspiration from the top blue zones around the world (Ikaria, Greece, Okinawa, Japan, Sardinia, Italy, Loma Linda, California, and the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica), where people tend to live longer (over 100 years!), often free of any heart disease, obesity, cancer, or diabetes.

Originally outlined by National Geographic Explorer and Fellow Dan Buettner, the blue zone diet is 95% plant-based, with beans, legumes, sweet potatoes, yams, fruits, leafy greens, beets, nuts, and seeds being the #1 priority. High-quality olive oiland whole grains like brown rice and barley are also a huge part of the diet. Blue zone diet recipes widely limit eggs, dairy, meat, added sugar, and processed foods.

The blue zone diet can be a helpful tool to guide your eating habits toward healthier, more beneficial choices for a longer life. These 20 blue zone diet recipes highlight whole foods, veggies, and fruits to make each meal work for you!

Heyday Beans

Chickpea Curry

This flavorful curry recipe loads up on lots of chickpeas to better suit the blue zone diet. Swap the basmati for brown rice, and you'll be set! (via Heyday Beans for Brit + Co)

Midjourney

Niçoise Salad

This dish is packed with so much goodness. From the bed of greens to the heart veggie toppings like olives, tomatoes, green beans, onion, and more, each bite is different from the next, which makes mealtime (especially with the blue zone diet) fun! (via Brit + Co)

Antoni Shkraba / PEXELS

Hummus + Veggies

Hummus is super easy to make at home, and it'd guaranteed to be healthy when you know exactly what you're putting into it. This recipe features a nice amount of lemon juice for taste and freshness. Serve with lotsa veg, as per the blue zone diet. (via Brit + Co)

Two Spoons

Spring Mix Salad + Lemon Tofu

Salads make some of the best blue zone diet recipes (remember that 95% plant-based rule?), but just because they're salads doesn't mean they have to be boring. This one earns some good zest from baked tofu, homemade dressing, and crunchy veggies. (via Two Spoons for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Zucchini Fries

These veggie-laden fries actually taste like what you'd get in the drive-thru. So, if you're searching for blue zone diet recipes that'll fulfill your fast food cravings, this is it. Serve with a homemade sauce to amp up the vibes. (via Brit + Co)

The Real Food Dietitians

Greek Cucumber Salad

Greek and Mediterranean food often qualify for the diet since they're fresh and full of healthy goods. This Greek salad combines juicy cukes, tomatoes, onions, and chickpeas for a refreshing blue zone bite. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

The Edgy Veg

Oyster Mushroom Shawarma

Since blue zone diet recipes tend to limit actual meat, it's crucial to find ones that emulate the meaty, smoky flavors of the chicken, beef, and fish you might be missing. In this dish, oyster mushrooms form a very complex forkful with the help of a homemade marinade. (via The Edgy Veg)

Give Recipe

Beetroot Dip

Beets are one of the top veggies to eat on the blue zone diet, and this dip is probably one of the coolest ways you can prepare them. This recipe earns extra points for including pine nuts and/or pistachios! (via Give Recipe)

Blue Zones

Cornmeal Waffles

Blue zone breakfasts can range from granolas to fruit salads, but these waffles look like the tastiest option out there. Wheat flour and cornmeal make up the thick batter for a filling morning meal. (via Blue Zones)

Crowded Kitchen

Couscous Salad

Grains are golden in this diet. Follow this recipe that creates a heavenly blend of couscous and veggies! This would be an excellent option to meal prep so you don't have to worry about cooking down the line. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Earthly Provisions

Three Bean Chili

Beans always win for the blue zone diet! This hearty bowl of chili leverages three different kinds to fill you up and fulfill all your comfort food cravings. (via Earthly Provisions)

Half Baked Harvest

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Dark, leafy greens are preferred over lighter ones for the diet because they usually hold more nutritional value. That's why this kale salad is a perfect blue zone diet recipe! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Blue Zones

Asian Stir Fry Noodles

This quick dinner doesn't skimp on flavor. You'll fall instantly in love with the blend of ginger, garlic, and sesame oil for the sauce that drowns these rice noodles. (via Blue Zones)

A Virtual Vegan

Almond Hemp Granola

This nutty granola is the ultimate addition to breakfast time yogurt bowls. (via A Virtual Vegan)

Hello Little Home

Roasted Squash

Virtually any vegetable is roast-able and fitting for the blue zone diet, but delicata squash is great for when you just want something a lil' different. (via Hello Little Home)

Vanilla and Bean

Citrus Carrot Ginger Smoothie

Wether it's for breakfast or a mid-day snack, this hydrating smoothie will never leave you unsatisfied. (via Vanilla and Bean)

The First Mess

Herby Whipped White Beans with Smoky Mushrooms

This share-worthy recipe expertly disguises white beans in the form of an herby dip topped with grilled 'shrooms. To make it more filling, use toasted whole grain bread as your dipping vehicle! (via The First Mess)

Blue Zones

Sweet Potato + Black Bean Burgers

Sweet potatoes and beans are some of the most recommended ingredients for blue zone diet recipes. In this meal, they team up with some oats and other crucial elements to form some super healthy burger patties. (via Blue Zones)

Half Baked Harvest

Roasted Cauliflower Hummus

Again, dips shine! This hummus is packed with veg – though you wouldn't know it if you didn't make it. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Blue Zones

Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Shaved Brussels sprouts are the star of this warm salad. Top things off with pickled onions and plenty of nuts for added deliciousness! (via Blue Zones)

Sign up for our newsletter for more healthy recipes!

This post has been updated.

mediterranean dietvegan foodhealthy recipesrecipes

10 New Movies Coming In April To Add To Your Calendar ASAP

If you're like me, then you've already added all the new April TV shows to your calendar...and used a highlighter & glitter pens to circle your favorites multiple times. Well grab your pens once again because the calendar isn't complete until you've added these new April movies! As we get closer to the adventure that summer blockbuster season brings (and Jonathan Bailey in Jurassic World: Rebirth, hello!), these spring movies give us the perfect dose of action.

Keep reading for all the new April movies to add to your watchlist in 2025.

Freaky Tales — In Theaters April 4, 2025

Sundance/Lionsgate

Stories of "an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector" converge in 1987 Oakland, according to this April movie's synopsis. And based on the trailer, it's definitely going to be a freaky ride.

Freaky Tales hits theaters April 4 and stars Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and Tom Hanks.

A Minecraft Movie — In Theaters April 4, 2025

Warner Bros. Pictures

After The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Jack Black is back for another video game adaptation. In A Minecraft Movie, he stars as Steve, an expert crafter who teams up with four misfits trying to get back home. Watch the trailer here.

A Minecraft Movie hits theaters April 4 and stars Jason Momoa, Jack Black, Danielle Brooks, Emma Myers, and Sebastian Hansen

Sacramento — In Theaters April 11, 2025

Tribeca Film Festival/Vertical

In this sunny movie, youthful Rickey convinces his friend Glenn, a family man, to take a break from the real world and go on a California road trip. And if the trailer's any indication, you'll walk out of this movie with a smile on your face.

Sacramento hits theaters April 11 and stars Michael Cera, Michael Angarano, Maya Erskine, and Kristen Stewart.

Drop — In Theaters April 11, 2025

Universal Pictures

In Drop, Violet's dreamy date with Henry quickly becomes a nightmare when her phone starts pinging with instructions — and the anonymous sender starts threatening her kid. The only problem? The final instruction is to kill Henry. If I'm this nervous watching the trailer, I'll definitely need a big bag of popcorn to see it in theaters!

Drop premieres April 11 and stars Meghann Fahy, Brandon Sklenar, Violett Beane, Jacob Robinson, Reed Diamond, Gabrielle Ryan, Jeffery Self, Ed Weeks, and Travis Nelson.

Warfare — In Theaters April 11, 2025

A24

All your favorite celebrities are starring in this April movie, which follows a group of Navy SEALs watching American forces move through Iraq and is based on real memories & events. You can watch the trailer now.

Warfare hits theaters April 11 and stars D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Will Poulter, Cosmo Jarvis, Kit Connor, Finn Bennett, Taylor John Smith, Michael Gandolfini, Adain Bradley, Noah Centineo, Evan Holtzman, Henrique Zaga, Joseph Quinn, and Charles Melton.

The Amateur — In Theaters April 11, 2025

20th Century Studios

Charlie is a CIA agent who usually stays out of the field. But when his wife is murdered, he jumps into action to exact revenge on the men responsible. The trailer already has me on the edge of my seat!

The Amateur premieres April 11 and stars Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson, Adrian Martinez, Danny Sapani, and Laurence Fishburne.

The Wedding Banquet — In Theaters April 18, 2025

Luka Cyprian/Bleecker Street

When his boyfriend won't commit, Min comes up with a simple proposition: a green-card marriage with Angela to pay for her partner Lee's IVF treatment. But when Min's grandma goes all out with a Korean wedding banquet, things get complicated (well, at least more complicated than they already were). Watch the trailer now!

The Wedding Banquet hits theaters April 18 and stars Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, Han Gi-chan, Joan Chen, and Youn Yuh-jung.

Sinners — In Theaters April 18, 2025

Warner Bros. Pictures

Twin brothers figure out their future is just as terrifying as their past when they set out for a new life. Watch the horrifying trailer here.

Sinners hits theaters April 18 and stars Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Benson Miller, and Delroy Lindo.

Pride & Prejudice — In Theaters April 20, 2025

Focus Features

Yep, you read that right — Pride & Prejudice is coming back to theaters! Celebrate the 20th anniversary of this iconic movie, which follows the headstrong Lizzy Bennet, the sharp Mr. Darcy, and their unending love for their families. The romantic trailer just proves this is the blueprint for enemies to lovers.

Pride & Prejudice hits theaters again on April 20 and stars Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen, Brenda Blethyn, Donald Sutherland, Rosamund Pike, Jena Malone, Tom Hollander, Penelope Wilton, and Judi Dench.

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith — In Theaters April 25, 2025

Lucasfilm

This is another flick I can't wait to relive in theaters! In the final installment of the Star Wars prequels, Anakin is battling the forces of good and evil as the battle between the Jedi and the Separatists comes to a head.

Revenge of the Sith is coming back to theaters April 25 and stars Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Ian McDiarmid, Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Lee, Anthony Daniels, Kenny Baker, and Frank Oz.

Which April movie are you excited to see this month? Tag us on Instagram!

pop cultureentertainment