Gossip Girl, an American television series, was officially renewed by The CW Television Network for a fourth season consisting of 22 episodes on February 16, 2010.[1] It was later announced that the show would stay in its Monday 9/8c timeslot as a lead-out to 90210.[2] The season premiered on September 13, 2010,[3] to a 1.0 Adults 18-49 rating and 1.84 million viewers.[4] While episode four hit season highs with a 1.1 Adults 18-49 rating and 2.00 million viewers.[5]
Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley, Chace Crawford, Taylor Momsen, Ed Westwick, Jessica Szohr, Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle all return as series regulars.[6]
The first half of the season focuses on Juliet, a mysterious girl with a vendetta against Serena.[7] The second half focuses on Chuck's professional struggles trying to keep his father's business. Season four also focuses on Serena's relationship with her former teacher Ben, Blair's career aspirations, as well as Blair and Dan's growing relationship.
The season currently holds a 75/100 rating on Metacritic, indicating generally positive reviews by critics.[8]
See also: List of Gossip Girl episodes
# # Title Directed by Written by Original air date U.S. viewers
(in millions)
66 1 "Belles de Jour" Mark Piznarski Joshua Safran & Stephanie Savage September 13, 2010 (2010-09-13) 1.83[4]
Serena and Blair enjoy their summer vacation in Paris trying to take their minds off of home. Meanwhile, Chuck is recovering in Prague after being found and healed by Eva, a French tourist who does not know his real identity. Meanwhile, back in New York, Eleanor helps Lily make arrangements for Fashion's Night Out at the van der Woodsen penthouse and Dan deals with raising Georgina's newborn son Milo, while Nate meets a potential new love interest, Juliet Sharp, whom he asks out on a date.
Title comes from the 1967 film Belle de Jour.
67 2 "Double Identity" Mark Piznarski Sara Goodman & Joshua Safran September 20, 2010 (2010-09-20) 1.84[9]
Serena and Blair run into a different Chuck in Paris, and is reluctant to return to New York with Eva. Back in New York, Juliet suggests to Nate that tricking Vanessa to be with Dan might be the right thing to remove Dan from the Dan-Serena-Nate love triangle. Rufus learns that Dan isn't Milo's father after he checks Georgina and Milo's blood test. Serena convinces Blair to talk Chuck into returning to Manhattan while Dan and Nate prepare to face Serena.
Title comes from the 1944 film Double Idemnity.
68 3 "The Undergraduates" Norman Buckley Amanda Lasher September 27, 2010 (2010-09-27) 1.78[10]
Juliet prevents Serena from joining the Hamilton House sorority. Serena and Blair find a way to expose Juliet's sabotaging plans. Georgina finally comes clean to Dan about Milo. Chuck is afraid of introducing Eva to Lily and Rufus, since she doesn't know of all the things he has done in the past.
Title comes from the 1967 film The Graduate.
69 4 "Touch of Eva" Andrew McCarthy Leila Gerstein October 4, 2010 (2010-10-04) 2.00[5]
Nate suspects that Juliet is keeping a big secret from him and decides to confront her. Meanwhile, Blair successfully plots to make Chuck and Eva break-up, which leads to him declaring war between them. Dan finds himself torn between his feelings for Serena and Vanessa.
Title comes from the 1958 film Touch of Evil.
70 5 "Goodbye, Columbia" Jeremiah Chechik Robert Hull October 11, 2010 (2010-10-11) 1.78[11]
Juliet sends a Gossip Girl blast that starts a very damaging rumor about Serena, saying she has an STD. Vanessa becomes worried that Dan and Serena may have slept together and turns to Juliet to help her get answers. After checking Serena's phone, Vanessa discovers than Dan and Serena did not sleep together. Vanessa then becomes collateral damage in Juliet's vendetta against Serena when she frames her for sending an e-mail from Serena's phone to her English professor offering sex for grades. Elsewhere, Chuck threatens Blair's chances to become the powerful businesswoman Martha's (guest star Marilyne Barrett) new assistant.
Title comes from the 1969 film Goodbye, Columbus.
71 6 "Easy J" Lee Shallat-Chemel Jake Coburn October 25, 2010 (2010-10-25) 1.88[12]
Jenny returns to New York for a job interview with Tim Gunn, while Blair puts forth her best efforts to send Little J back to Hudson. After her interview with Tim Gunn is sabotaged by Blair, Jenny reveals on Gossip Girl that she and Chuck slept together. Meanwhile, Serena learns that Colin (guest star Sam Page) is actually her college professor, which puts their relationship in grave danger.
Title comes from the 2010 film Easy A.
72 7 "War at the Roses" Joe Lazarov Jessica Queller November 1, 2010 (2010-11-01) 1.82[13]
Blair is caught off guard at her 20th birthday party. Worried that Chuck and Blair might return to their vindictive games, Serena and Nate make the warring exes sign a peace treaty. Dan comes up with a scheme that will allow Jenny to return to the Upper East Side to celebrate Rufus and Lily's anniversary celebration, but his plan ultimately backfires. Serena and Colin try to resist their desires for each other. Singer Robyn has a cameo at Blair's birthday party celebration.
Title comes from the 1989 film The War of the Roses.
73 8 "Juliet Doesn't Live Here Anymore" Patrick Norris Jeanne Leitenberg November 8, 2010 (2010-11-08) 1.78[14]
Serena continues to resist temptation with her professor Colin, while Blair tries to resist temptation with Chuck. Vanessa joins Juliet's scheme to try to bring down Serena with photos taken of her and Colin in a romantic embrace. Nate discovers that Juliet has been lying about where she lives, and that she is poor. Dan realizes that he still has feelings for Serena.
Title comes from the 1974 film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore.
74 9 "The Witches of Bushwick" Ron Fortunato Sara Goodman November 15, 2010 (2010-11-15) 1.69[15]
Serena learns that she has until the end of Chuck's Saints & Sinners Masquerade Ball to choose between Dan or Nate. Jenny joins forces with Juliet and Vanessa to take down Serena. Meanwhile, Blair sets her sights on becoming the new face of Anne Archibald's Foundation for Girls, but her relationship with Chuck may be problematic.
Title comes from the 1987 film The Witches of Eastwick.
75 10 "Gaslit" Tate Donovan Robert Hull & Joshua Safran November 29, 2010 (2010-11-29) 1.96[16]
Lily, Rufus, Eric, Blair, Dan, and Chuck find themselves at the hospital for an overdose from Serena. Vanessa tries to frame Jenny for Juliet's actions, thus threatening her relationship with her family. Meanwhile, Nate attempts to help his parents put the past behind them and reconcile. After successfully clearing her agenda, Juliet makes a departure from New York City, as well as Vanessa, in fear of potential vengeance from Blair. Jenny discovers Juliet's true intentions towards Serena and gives Blair information that will help her take down Juliet.
Title comes from the 1944 film Gaslight.
76 11 "The Townie" Joe Lazarov Amanda Lasher & Stephanie Savage December 6, 2010 (2010-12-06) 2.06[17]
Blair and Dan team up with Damien to find Juliet in her Connecticut hometown through a tip from Gossip Girl. When Juliet spots the trio in her town, she decides to return to New York to finish what she started with Serena. Meanwhile, Nate struggles with allowing his father back into his life when the Captain announces that his parole has been granted. Also, Rufus and Chuck learn Lily is planning to sell Bass Industries. One Week Later, Nate leaves town to be with his paroled father for the winter break, while Chuck leaves for New Zealand to meet with his uncle hoping to find a way to stop Lily from selling his company. Serena creates a plan to help get Ben out of prison.
Title comes from the 2010 film The Town.
77 12 "The Kids Are Not Alright" Allan Kroeker KJ Steinberg January 24, 2011 (2011-01-24) 1.58[18]
A former associate of Chuck’s father, Russell Thorpe, along with his crafty and headstrong daughter Raina, return to Manhattan with some unfinished business concerning Bass Industries. Serena and Chuck unite against Lily. Meanwhile, Blair realizes that her mother, Eleanor, may be her key to becoming a future CEO. Also, Nate worries that his father, The Captain, is having a little too much fun after his release from prison and is not taking his parole seriously.
Title comes from the 2010 film The Kids Are All Right.
78 13 "Damien Darko" Jeremiah Chechik Leila Gerstein January 31, 2011 (2011-01-31) 1.51[19]
Blair is thrilled to get an internship at W Magazine to further claw her way up the ranks to become a ruling CEO, but her excitement fades when she discovers that Dan has secured one of the coveted positions along with four other top students. Meanwhile, Chuck may have finally met his match with Russell Thorpe, and his daughter Raina, when they announce that they are planning to take over Bass Industries. Serena tries a reconciliation with Ben after his release from prison. Eric engages in suspicious behavior with Damien. Also, Nate receives alarming news about his father’s business prospects when he learns that the Captain and Russell are working together for some nefarious purpose.
Title comes from the 2001 film Donnie Darko.
79 14 "Panic Roommate" Andrew McCarthy Jake Coburn February 7, 2011 (2011-02-07) 1.62[20]
Blair enlists Nate's help to win over her high-strung boss, Epperly, at W Magazine. Meanwhile, Damien stirs up more drama when he begins playing Eric and Serena against each other in an attempt to get back at Ben. Also, Chuck finds himself torn between business and pleasure with Raina.
Title comes from the 2002 film Panic Room and the 2011 film The Roommate.
80 15 "It-Girl Happened One Night" Bart Wenrich Alex McNally February 14, 2011 (2011-02-14) 1.32[21]
As Russell Thorpe is prepared to takeover Bass Industries, Chuck makes one last attempt to save his father’s company by throwing a Valentine's Day fund raiser, and tries to cut Lily loose from his company and his life. Meanwhile, at W Magazine, a difficult assignment gives Blair the opportunity for a promotion. Elsewhere, Serena struggles with her feelings for Ben against her family's disapproval. Also, Russell fires Nate's father from his company as he is a conflict of interest.
Title comes from the 1934 film It Happened One Night.
81 16 "While You Weren't Sleeping" Norman Buckley Sara Goodman February 21, 2011 (2011-02-21) 1.57[22]
Eric's 18th birthday arrives, along with a drama filled celebration. Damien blackmails Eric with the information he knows about the affidavit Lily forged against Ben. An impatient Blair decides to speed up the time table to jump start her career... but ultimately stretches herself too thin. Meanwhile, Serena is forced to choose between her family and a potential romance with Ben. Chuck and Lily reconcile and team up in order to save Bass Industries from Russell Thorpe. Also, Vanessa returns to apologize to Dan.
Title comes from the 1995 film While You Were Sleeping.
82 17 "Empire of the Son" David Warren Robert Hull February 28, 2011 (2011-02-28) 1.39[23]
Unresolved issues between Ben and Serena come to light when his mother visits. Meanwhile, Russell puts his relationship with Raina at risk by using personal information to blackmail Lily in order to destroy Chuck's family legacy. Russell tells Chuck a devastating secret about his father. Dan and Blair's relationship continues to build. Nate and Raina explore their feelings for each other. Lily prepares to face legal consequences for her part in Ben's false imprisonment. Also, William van der Woodsen makes his return to the Upper East Side.
Title comes from the 1987 film Empire of the Sun.
83 18 "The Kids Stay in the Picture"[24] TBA TBA April 18, 2011 (2011-04-18)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 2002 documentary The Kid Stays in the Picture.
84 19 "Petty in Pink"[25] TBA TBA April 25, 2011 (2011-04-25)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 1986 film Pretty in Pink.
85 20 "The Princesses and the Frog"[26] TBA TBA May 2, 2011 (2011-05-02)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 2009 film The Princess and the Frog.
86 21 "Shattered Bass"[27] TBA TBA May 9, 2011 (2011-05-09)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 2003 film Shattered Glass.
[edit] Production
The series was renewed for a fourth season on February 16, 2010.[1] It will continue to air Mondays at 9/8c following 90210,[2] and premiered on September 13, 2010.[3]
Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Ed Westwick and Clémence Poésy began filming this season in Paris, France on July 5, 2010.[28] It was announced that Jessica Szohr would be absent for an unspecified number of episodes.[29] However, Szohr began filming on July 9, 2010, the first day of production in New York City along with Penn Badgley, which indicated she's be back sooner than anticipated.[30] Szohr appeared in the season premiere. Taylor Momsen began filming her scenes on August 30, 2010.[31] Taylor Momsen appears in 1 episode titled Easy J which aired October 25, 2010 and will return in full series regular status for the second half of the season. It had also been confirmed that Tate Donovan, who previously worked with show's developers Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage in The O.C., will be directing an episode scheduled to air in November 2010.[32]
The first two episodes of the season take place in Paris.[33] A full-season of 22 episodes is planned.
[edit] Cast
I can’t say that I’ve actually watched Gossip Girl a lot. A guy who works with me watches it a lot, and he said: “Yes! You have to do it. It’s really good.” So I checked a little bit with people I know to see what they thought about it, but I thought it would be a good opportunity to showcase the music. I’m happy for any kind of way of doing that at the moment.
“
”
—Robyn on her acceptance of the 'Gossip Girl' guest spot.[34]
Harry Potter actress Clémence Poésy joined the cast in Paris as Chuck's new girlfriend, Eva, for four episodes.[35]
Former Melrose Place star Katie Cassidy joined the cast as Juliet, a student at Columbia University and a potential love interest for Nate, with an agenda against Serena, together with David Call as Ben Donovan, Juliet's imprisoned brother.[36][37] Actor Sam Page was cast as Serena's new love interest, a Columbia business professor and Juliet and Ben's cousin, for a four episode arc.[38] Kevin Zegers is returning to the show as Damien Dalgaard, he's expected to do one episode this year and comeback later in the season.[39] Desmond Harrington is also returning as Chuck's uncle, Jack Bass. His first appearance this season is set to air sometime in 2011.[40] Taylor Momsen was absent for several episodes at the beginning of the season due to her touring commitments with The Pretty Reckless, but return near the end of the first half of the season.[41] Michael Boatman and Tika Sumpter will be guest starring in episodes set to begin airing on 2011. He'll play Russell Thorpe, a powerful business tycoon and a former associate of Chuck’s father, Bart, while she will portray his daughter, Raina.[42]
Tim Gunn and fashion designers Diane Von Furstenberg and Rachel Zoe all made special cameo appearances during the first half of the season.[43][44][45] Singer Robyn has also made a cameo appearance performing her hit song 'Hang with Me.'[46]
William Baldwin has admitted he would like to return for the fourth season. He has said he will return in the same capacity of Michelle Trachtenberg to come in cause some trouble then leave again. The CW has announced Baldwin will return in February 2011.[47] Sheila Kelley replaced Illeana Douglas as Lily's sister, Carol, after Douglas was forced to drop out of the project due to scheduling conflicts.[48] Michelle Trachtenberg will return to the series as Georgina Sparks in the season finale. Kaylee DeFer is also joining the cast as Carol's daughter and Serena and Eric's cousin. DeFer's contract with the show also includes the possibility of her becoming a series regular next season.[49]
[edit] Plot
I didn’t actually read that into it until I actually saw it on TV and how they set it up. I can see why people would think that.
“
”
—Katie Cassidy on fans thinking she was Gossip Girl.[50]
Season four begins with Serena and Blair enjoying their summer in Paris...until the unexpected appearance of Chuck Bass, who is using a false name and cozying up to a new girl. Blair has to decide if she wants to fight for Chuck or spend her energy trying to rule Columbia University.[51] Serena needs to choose between Nate and Dan, but Dan is a bit busy coping with his new role as "dad" to Georgina's baby. Georgina later reveals the baby is not his.[52] Stephanie Savage has revealed in an interview that the Dan and Serena story is "reactivated" and sorting through it will become a bigger story. She also revealed that the third season finale "Last Tango, Then Paris" had a big impact on Jenny and she'll be a changed person when she returns.[53] Her return later this season will be "full of drama."[54]
The Gossip Girl website was under construction when Serena and Blair returned from Paris and debuted “never before seen technology" when it returned.[54] It is revealed that Juliet is working with her brother to take down Serena, for unknown reasons.[55] Vanessa gets caught in the middle when Juliet sets her up for stealing Serena's phone and sending an incriminating email. Vanessa later leaves town when only Dan believes her, but tells Juliet to watch her back.[56] After Blair ran Chuck's new girlfriend out of town, he pledges war against her.[57] They later decide that it's best for both of them if they end their fighting after Jenny posts on Gossip Girl the reason why she left town.[58] In the next episode, at Blair's 20th birthday party they kiss and have sex.[59] Both Nate and Dan still have feelings for Serena,[60] but don't know what to make of her mixed signals.[61]
Most of Juliet's plan will be revealed by the end of the first half of the season, with some elements set to carry over. Juliet will also recruit two main characters to help take Serena down.[7] Blair and Dan will team up to help Serena.[62] The two characters who joined Juliet were Vanessa and Jenny.[61] The three manage to turn everyone against Serena when Juliet and Jenny dress up as her at a masquerade party. Juliet takes photos of herself with cocaine and drugs Serena, causing Lily to believe Serena had gone off the rails again and has her committed to the Ostroff center. Jenny, feeling guilty about what they've done reveals everything to Blair. Vanessa leaves town to avoid Blair, while Blair and Dan form an alliance to seek revenge on Juliet.[63] After they track her down, Juliet goes to Serena and explains everything to her. It is revealed in a confrontation with Lily that Juliet's brother Ben was Serena's former teacher at her boarding school in Connecticut, who was accused of having an affair with Serena. Lily forged Serena's signature on the police affidavit, which in Lily's plan, would allow Serena to return home and, inadvertently, sent Ben to prison. Serena then hatches a plan to help free Ben from prison. This involves proving that her mother forged the affidavit against Ben. Chuck also learns that Lily was planning to sell Bass Industries behind his back.[64]
With Lily's influence, Ben is released from prison. Serena and Ben then pursue the possibility of a romance, which is made difficult by the history between them including Juliet's schemes against Serena and Lily having sent Ben to prison in the first place. They ultimately break up after his mother steals the affidavit in an attempt to clear her son's name and realizing that they cannot "hold on to the past". Serena and Chuck still hold resentment for Lily for having sent Ben to prison under false pretenses and for attempting to sell Bass Industries respectively. With the sale of Bass Industries looking to be imminent, Chuck and Lily work tirelessly to save the company from Russell Thorpe. Chuck falls for Raina, Russell's daughter. Things come to a head after Russell finds out about what Lily did to Ben, and uses it against her to buy Bass Industries. Lily decides to turn herself in to the DA to face charges for what she has done. Chuck is told by Russell that his wife was killed in a fire in one of Bart Bass' buildings years ago, which is the cause for his vendetta against him. Dan and Blair become closer after having spent some time together over the winter break. After both have failed attempts at an internship at W magazine and continuing to see art movies together, they continue to grow closer, culminating in them sharing a kiss to resolve whether or not they have true feelings for each other.
[edit] Reception
The season premiered to generally favorable reviews from critics. Steve Marsi, from Tv Fanatic, gave the episode 4.5 stars out of 5.0 and praised Michelle Trachtenberg and guest star Katie Cassidy's acting and storylines.[65] Mark O. Estes, from Tv Overmind, also enjoyed the fact that the episode had "explored more adult themes than usual."[66] Gerard McGarry, from Unreality Shout, had said that the season premiere was "brilliant," while Alexis James-Whitehead, from Buzz Focus.com, had said that the episode was "less sizzle than fizzle."[67][68] Leighton Meester and Ed Westwick's acting was praised during the next episode[69][70] "Chuck Bass" was also a trending topic on Twitter on the night the episode aired.[71] The season has a 75/100 score of Metacritic, indicating mostly positive reviews.[8]
The season premiere achieved a 1.0 rating and was seen by 1.83 million viewers.[4] The fourth episode hit season highs in all categories with a 2.8 Women 18-34 rating, 1.1 Adults 18-49, 1.7 Adults 18-34 and 2.00 million viewers.[5]
The series has larger increases in the adults 18-49 on the Live + 7 DVR Ratings. The 4th episode had a 18-49 rating of 1.1,[5] which was later increased to a 1.5 rating.[72] The 5th episode had a 18-49 rating of 0.9, which later rose up to 1.3, which is 44% of increase.[73]
Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley, Chace Crawford, Taylor Momsen, Ed Westwick, Jessica Szohr, Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle all return as series regulars.[6]
The first half of the season focuses on Juliet, a mysterious girl with a vendetta against Serena.[7] The second half focuses on Chuck's professional struggles trying to keep his father's business. Season four also focuses on Serena's relationship with her former teacher Ben, Blair's career aspirations, as well as Blair and Dan's growing relationship.The season currently holds a 75/100 rating on Metacritic, indicating generally positive reviews by critics.[8]
See also: List of Gossip Girl episodes
# # Title Directed by Written by Original air date U.S. viewers
(in millions)
66 1 "Belles de Jour" Mark Piznarski Joshua Safran & Stephanie Savage September 13, 2010 (2010-09-13) 1.83[4]
Serena and Blair enjoy their summer vacation in Paris trying to take their minds off of home. Meanwhile, Chuck is recovering in Prague after being found and healed by Eva, a French tourist who does not know his real identity. Meanwhile, back in New York, Eleanor helps Lily make arrangements for Fashion's Night Out at the van der Woodsen penthouse and Dan deals with raising Georgina's newborn son Milo, while Nate meets a potential new love interest, Juliet Sharp, whom he asks out on a date.
Title comes from the 1967 film Belle de Jour. 67 2 "Double Identity" Mark Piznarski Sara Goodman & Joshua Safran September 20, 2010 (2010-09-20) 1.84[9]
Serena and Blair run into a different Chuck in Paris, and is reluctant to return to New York with Eva. Back in New York, Juliet suggests to Nate that tricking Vanessa to be with Dan might be the right thing to remove Dan from the Dan-Serena-Nate love triangle. Rufus learns that Dan isn't Milo's father after he checks Georgina and Milo's blood test. Serena convinces Blair to talk Chuck into returning to Manhattan while Dan and Nate prepare to face Serena.
Title comes from the 1944 film Double Idemnity.
68 3 "The Undergraduates" Norman Buckley Amanda Lasher September 27, 2010 (2010-09-27) 1.78[10]
Juliet prevents Serena from joining the Hamilton House sorority. Serena and Blair find a way to expose Juliet's sabotaging plans. Georgina finally comes clean to Dan about Milo. Chuck is afraid of introducing Eva to Lily and Rufus, since she doesn't know of all the things he has done in the past.
Title comes from the 1967 film The Graduate.
69 4 "Touch of Eva" Andrew McCarthy Leila Gerstein October 4, 2010 (2010-10-04) 2.00[5]
Nate suspects that Juliet is keeping a big secret from him and decides to confront her. Meanwhile, Blair successfully plots to make Chuck and Eva break-up, which leads to him declaring war between them. Dan finds himself torn between his feelings for Serena and Vanessa.
Title comes from the 1958 film Touch of Evil.
70 5 "Goodbye, Columbia" Jeremiah Chechik Robert Hull October 11, 2010 (2010-10-11) 1.78[11]
Juliet sends a Gossip Girl blast that starts a very damaging rumor about Serena, saying she has an STD. Vanessa becomes worried that Dan and Serena may have slept together and turns to Juliet to help her get answers. After checking Serena's phone, Vanessa discovers than Dan and Serena did not sleep together. Vanessa then becomes collateral damage in Juliet's vendetta against Serena when she frames her for sending an e-mail from Serena's phone to her English professor offering sex for grades. Elsewhere, Chuck threatens Blair's chances to become the powerful businesswoman Martha's (guest star Marilyne Barrett) new assistant.Title comes from the 1969 film Goodbye, Columbus.
71 6 "Easy J" Lee Shallat-Chemel Jake Coburn October 25, 2010 (2010-10-25) 1.88[12]
Jenny returns to New York for a job interview with Tim Gunn, while Blair puts forth her best efforts to send Little J back to Hudson. After her interview with Tim Gunn is sabotaged by Blair, Jenny reveals on Gossip Girl that she and Chuck slept together. Meanwhile, Serena learns that Colin (guest star Sam Page) is actually her college professor, which puts their relationship in grave danger.
Title comes from the 2010 film Easy A.
72 7 "War at the Roses" Joe Lazarov Jessica Queller November 1, 2010 (2010-11-01) 1.82[13]
Blair is caught off guard at her 20th birthday party. Worried that Chuck and Blair might return to their vindictive games, Serena and Nate make the warring exes sign a peace treaty. Dan comes up with a scheme that will allow Jenny to return to the Upper East Side to celebrate Rufus and Lily's anniversary celebration, but his plan ultimately backfires. Serena and Colin try to resist their desires for each other. Singer Robyn has a cameo at Blair's birthday party celebration.
Title comes from the 1989 film The War of the Roses.
73 8 "Juliet Doesn't Live Here Anymore" Patrick Norris Jeanne Leitenberg November 8, 2010 (2010-11-08) 1.78[14]
Serena continues to resist temptation with her professor Colin, while Blair tries to resist temptation with Chuck. Vanessa joins Juliet's scheme to try to bring down Serena with photos taken of her and Colin in a romantic embrace. Nate discovers that Juliet has been lying about where she lives, and that she is poor. Dan realizes that he still has feelings for Serena.
Title comes from the 1974 film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore.
74 9 "The Witches of Bushwick" Ron Fortunato Sara Goodman November 15, 2010 (2010-11-15) 1.69[15]
Serena learns that she has until the end of Chuck's Saints & Sinners Masquerade Ball to choose between Dan or Nate. Jenny joins forces with Juliet and Vanessa to take down Serena. Meanwhile, Blair sets her sights on becoming the new face of Anne Archibald's Foundation for Girls, but her relationship with Chuck may be problematic.
Title comes from the 1987 film The Witches of Eastwick.
75 10 "Gaslit" Tate Donovan Robert Hull & Joshua Safran November 29, 2010 (2010-11-29) 1.96[16]
Lily, Rufus, Eric, Blair, Dan, and Chuck find themselves at the hospital for an overdose from Serena. Vanessa tries to frame Jenny for Juliet's actions, thus threatening her relationship with her family. Meanwhile, Nate attempts to help his parents put the past behind them and reconcile. After successfully clearing her agenda, Juliet makes a departure from New York City, as well as Vanessa, in fear of potential vengeance from Blair. Jenny discovers Juliet's true intentions towards Serena and gives Blair information that will help her take down Juliet.
Title comes from the 1944 film Gaslight.
76 11 "The Townie" Joe Lazarov Amanda Lasher & Stephanie Savage December 6, 2010 (2010-12-06) 2.06[17]
Blair and Dan team up with Damien to find Juliet in her Connecticut hometown through a tip from Gossip Girl. When Juliet spots the trio in her town, she decides to return to New York to finish what she started with Serena. Meanwhile, Nate struggles with allowing his father back into his life when the Captain announces that his parole has been granted. Also, Rufus and Chuck learn Lily is planning to sell Bass Industries. One Week Later, Nate leaves town to be with his paroled father for the winter break, while Chuck leaves for New Zealand to meet with his uncle hoping to find a way to stop Lily from selling his company. Serena creates a plan to help get Ben out of prison.
Title comes from the 2010 film The Town.
77 12 "The Kids Are Not Alright" Allan Kroeker KJ Steinberg January 24, 2011 (2011-01-24) 1.58[18]
A former associate of Chuck’s father, Russell Thorpe, along with his crafty and headstrong daughter Raina, return to Manhattan with some unfinished business concerning Bass Industries. Serena and Chuck unite against Lily. Meanwhile, Blair realizes that her mother, Eleanor, may be her key to becoming a future CEO. Also, Nate worries that his father, The Captain, is having a little too much fun after his release from prison and is not taking his parole seriously.
Title comes from the 2010 film The Kids Are All Right.
78 13 "Damien Darko" Jeremiah Chechik Leila Gerstein January 31, 2011 (2011-01-31) 1.51[19]
Blair is thrilled to get an internship at W Magazine to further claw her way up the ranks to become a ruling CEO, but her excitement fades when she discovers that Dan has secured one of the coveted positions along with four other top students. Meanwhile, Chuck may have finally met his match with Russell Thorpe, and his daughter Raina, when they announce that they are planning to take over Bass Industries. Serena tries a reconciliation with Ben after his release from prison. Eric engages in suspicious behavior with Damien. Also, Nate receives alarming news about his father’s business prospects when he learns that the Captain and Russell are working together for some nefarious purpose.
Title comes from the 2001 film Donnie Darko.
79 14 "Panic Roommate" Andrew McCarthy Jake Coburn February 7, 2011 (2011-02-07) 1.62[20]
Blair enlists Nate's help to win over her high-strung boss, Epperly, at W Magazine. Meanwhile, Damien stirs up more drama when he begins playing Eric and Serena against each other in an attempt to get back at Ben. Also, Chuck finds himself torn between business and pleasure with Raina.
Title comes from the 2002 film Panic Room and the 2011 film The Roommate.
80 15 "It-Girl Happened One Night" Bart Wenrich Alex McNally February 14, 2011 (2011-02-14) 1.32[21]
As Russell Thorpe is prepared to takeover Bass Industries, Chuck makes one last attempt to save his father’s company by throwing a Valentine's Day fund raiser, and tries to cut Lily loose from his company and his life. Meanwhile, at W Magazine, a difficult assignment gives Blair the opportunity for a promotion. Elsewhere, Serena struggles with her feelings for Ben against her family's disapproval. Also, Russell fires Nate's father from his company as he is a conflict of interest.
Title comes from the 1934 film It Happened One Night.
81 16 "While You Weren't Sleeping" Norman Buckley Sara Goodman February 21, 2011 (2011-02-21) 1.57[22]
Eric's 18th birthday arrives, along with a drama filled celebration. Damien blackmails Eric with the information he knows about the affidavit Lily forged against Ben. An impatient Blair decides to speed up the time table to jump start her career... but ultimately stretches herself too thin. Meanwhile, Serena is forced to choose between her family and a potential romance with Ben. Chuck and Lily reconcile and team up in order to save Bass Industries from Russell Thorpe. Also, Vanessa returns to apologize to Dan.
Title comes from the 1995 film While You Were Sleeping.
82 17 "Empire of the Son" David Warren Robert Hull February 28, 2011 (2011-02-28) 1.39[23]
Unresolved issues between Ben and Serena come to light when his mother visits. Meanwhile, Russell puts his relationship with Raina at risk by using personal information to blackmail Lily in order to destroy Chuck's family legacy. Russell tells Chuck a devastating secret about his father. Dan and Blair's relationship continues to build. Nate and Raina explore their feelings for each other. Lily prepares to face legal consequences for her part in Ben's false imprisonment. Also, William van der Woodsen makes his return to the Upper East Side.
Title comes from the 1987 film Empire of the Sun.
83 18 "The Kids Stay in the Picture"[24] TBA TBA April 18, 2011 (2011-04-18)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 2002 documentary The Kid Stays in the Picture.
84 19 "Petty in Pink"[25] TBA TBA April 25, 2011 (2011-04-25)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 1986 film Pretty in Pink.
85 20 "The Princesses and the Frog"[26] TBA TBA May 2, 2011 (2011-05-02)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 2009 film The Princess and the Frog.
86 21 "Shattered Bass"[27] TBA TBA May 9, 2011 (2011-05-09)
This episode has not yet aired.
Title comes from the 2003 film Shattered Glass.
[edit] Production
The series was renewed for a fourth season on February 16, 2010.[1] It will continue to air Mondays at 9/8c following 90210,[2] and premiered on September 13, 2010.[3]
Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Ed Westwick and Clémence Poésy began filming this season in Paris, France on July 5, 2010.[28] It was announced that Jessica Szohr would be absent for an unspecified number of episodes.[29] However, Szohr began filming on July 9, 2010, the first day of production in New York City along with Penn Badgley, which indicated she's be back sooner than anticipated.[30] Szohr appeared in the season premiere. Taylor Momsen began filming her scenes on August 30, 2010.[31] Taylor Momsen appears in 1 episode titled Easy J which aired October 25, 2010 and will return in full series regular status for the second half of the season. It had also been confirmed that Tate Donovan, who previously worked with show's developers Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage in The O.C., will be directing an episode scheduled to air in November 2010.[32]
The first two episodes of the season take place in Paris.[33] A full-season of 22 episodes is planned.
[edit] Cast
I can’t say that I’ve actually watched Gossip Girl a lot. A guy who works with me watches it a lot, and he said: “Yes! You have to do it. It’s really good.” So I checked a little bit with people I know to see what they thought about it, but I thought it would be a good opportunity to showcase the music. I’m happy for any kind of way of doing that at the moment.
“
”
—Robyn on her acceptance of the 'Gossip Girl' guest spot.[34]
Harry Potter actress Clémence Poésy joined the cast in Paris as Chuck's new girlfriend, Eva, for four episodes.[35]
Former Melrose Place star Katie Cassidy joined the cast as Juliet, a student at Columbia University and a potential love interest for Nate, with an agenda against Serena, together with David Call as Ben Donovan, Juliet's imprisoned brother.[36][37] Actor Sam Page was cast as Serena's new love interest, a Columbia business professor and Juliet and Ben's cousin, for a four episode arc.[38] Kevin Zegers is returning to the show as Damien Dalgaard, he's expected to do one episode this year and comeback later in the season.[39] Desmond Harrington is also returning as Chuck's uncle, Jack Bass. His first appearance this season is set to air sometime in 2011.[40] Taylor Momsen was absent for several episodes at the beginning of the season due to her touring commitments with The Pretty Reckless, but return near the end of the first half of the season.[41] Michael Boatman and Tika Sumpter will be guest starring in episodes set to begin airing on 2011. He'll play Russell Thorpe, a powerful business tycoon and a former associate of Chuck’s father, Bart, while she will portray his daughter, Raina.[42]
Tim Gunn and fashion designers Diane Von Furstenberg and Rachel Zoe all made special cameo appearances during the first half of the season.[43][44][45] Singer Robyn has also made a cameo appearance performing her hit song 'Hang with Me.'[46]
William Baldwin has admitted he would like to return for the fourth season. He has said he will return in the same capacity of Michelle Trachtenberg to come in cause some trouble then leave again. The CW has announced Baldwin will return in February 2011.[47] Sheila Kelley replaced Illeana Douglas as Lily's sister, Carol, after Douglas was forced to drop out of the project due to scheduling conflicts.[48] Michelle Trachtenberg will return to the series as Georgina Sparks in the season finale. Kaylee DeFer is also joining the cast as Carol's daughter and Serena and Eric's cousin. DeFer's contract with the show also includes the possibility of her becoming a series regular next season.[49]
[edit] Plot
I didn’t actually read that into it until I actually saw it on TV and how they set it up. I can see why people would think that.
“
”
—Katie Cassidy on fans thinking she was Gossip Girl.[50]
Season four begins with Serena and Blair enjoying their summer in Paris...until the unexpected appearance of Chuck Bass, who is using a false name and cozying up to a new girl. Blair has to decide if she wants to fight for Chuck or spend her energy trying to rule Columbia University.[51] Serena needs to choose between Nate and Dan, but Dan is a bit busy coping with his new role as "dad" to Georgina's baby. Georgina later reveals the baby is not his.[52] Stephanie Savage has revealed in an interview that the Dan and Serena story is "reactivated" and sorting through it will become a bigger story. She also revealed that the third season finale "Last Tango, Then Paris" had a big impact on Jenny and she'll be a changed person when she returns.[53] Her return later this season will be "full of drama."[54]
The Gossip Girl website was under construction when Serena and Blair returned from Paris and debuted “never before seen technology" when it returned.[54] It is revealed that Juliet is working with her brother to take down Serena, for unknown reasons.[55] Vanessa gets caught in the middle when Juliet sets her up for stealing Serena's phone and sending an incriminating email. Vanessa later leaves town when only Dan believes her, but tells Juliet to watch her back.[56] After Blair ran Chuck's new girlfriend out of town, he pledges war against her.[57] They later decide that it's best for both of them if they end their fighting after Jenny posts on Gossip Girl the reason why she left town.[58] In the next episode, at Blair's 20th birthday party they kiss and have sex.[59] Both Nate and Dan still have feelings for Serena,[60] but don't know what to make of her mixed signals.[61]
Most of Juliet's plan will be revealed by the end of the first half of the season, with some elements set to carry over. Juliet will also recruit two main characters to help take Serena down.[7] Blair and Dan will team up to help Serena.[62] The two characters who joined Juliet were Vanessa and Jenny.[61] The three manage to turn everyone against Serena when Juliet and Jenny dress up as her at a masquerade party. Juliet takes photos of herself with cocaine and drugs Serena, causing Lily to believe Serena had gone off the rails again and has her committed to the Ostroff center. Jenny, feeling guilty about what they've done reveals everything to Blair. Vanessa leaves town to avoid Blair, while Blair and Dan form an alliance to seek revenge on Juliet.[63] After they track her down, Juliet goes to Serena and explains everything to her. It is revealed in a confrontation with Lily that Juliet's brother Ben was Serena's former teacher at her boarding school in Connecticut, who was accused of having an affair with Serena. Lily forged Serena's signature on the police affidavit, which in Lily's plan, would allow Serena to return home and, inadvertently, sent Ben to prison. Serena then hatches a plan to help free Ben from prison. This involves proving that her mother forged the affidavit against Ben. Chuck also learns that Lily was planning to sell Bass Industries behind his back.[64]
With Lily's influence, Ben is released from prison. Serena and Ben then pursue the possibility of a romance, which is made difficult by the history between them including Juliet's schemes against Serena and Lily having sent Ben to prison in the first place. They ultimately break up after his mother steals the affidavit in an attempt to clear her son's name and realizing that they cannot "hold on to the past". Serena and Chuck still hold resentment for Lily for having sent Ben to prison under false pretenses and for attempting to sell Bass Industries respectively. With the sale of Bass Industries looking to be imminent, Chuck and Lily work tirelessly to save the company from Russell Thorpe. Chuck falls for Raina, Russell's daughter. Things come to a head after Russell finds out about what Lily did to Ben, and uses it against her to buy Bass Industries. Lily decides to turn herself in to the DA to face charges for what she has done. Chuck is told by Russell that his wife was killed in a fire in one of Bart Bass' buildings years ago, which is the cause for his vendetta against him. Dan and Blair become closer after having spent some time together over the winter break. After both have failed attempts at an internship at W magazine and continuing to see art movies together, they continue to grow closer, culminating in them sharing a kiss to resolve whether or not they have true feelings for each other.
[edit] Reception
The season premiered to generally favorable reviews from critics. Steve Marsi, from Tv Fanatic, gave the episode 4.5 stars out of 5.0 and praised Michelle Trachtenberg and guest star Katie Cassidy's acting and storylines.[65] Mark O. Estes, from Tv Overmind, also enjoyed the fact that the episode had "explored more adult themes than usual."[66] Gerard McGarry, from Unreality Shout, had said that the season premiere was "brilliant," while Alexis James-Whitehead, from Buzz Focus.com, had said that the episode was "less sizzle than fizzle."[67][68] Leighton Meester and Ed Westwick's acting was praised during the next episode[69][70] "Chuck Bass" was also a trending topic on Twitter on the night the episode aired.[71] The season has a 75/100 score of Metacritic, indicating mostly positive reviews.[8]
The season premiere achieved a 1.0 rating and was seen by 1.83 million viewers.[4] The fourth episode hit season highs in all categories with a 2.8 Women 18-34 rating, 1.1 Adults 18-49, 1.7 Adults 18-34 and 2.00 million viewers.[5]
The series has larger increases in the adults 18-49 on the Live + 7 DVR Ratings. The 4th episode had a 18-49 rating of 1.1,[5] which was later increased to a 1.5 rating.[72] The 5th episode had a 18-49 rating of 0.9, which later rose up to 1.3, which is 44% of increase.[73]
