Penn Badgley Discusses the Intrigue of "You," Stardom, and Future Projects

Penn Badgley opens up about “You,” his thoughts on fame, and future plans in an exclusive discussion with USA TODAY: “I’ve never tried to cater to what I imagine audience expectations might be.”

NEW YORK – Penn Badgley is hoping for a bit of excitement to stir things up.

Riding in an Uber down Manhattan’s West Side Highway, he muses about how an unexpected event—like a breakdown by the roadside—could spice up this interview.

Visualizing Badgley as his infamous character Joe Goldberg might make for some thrilling tension, yet there’s no need. This is Badgley himself—the charismatic, grounded actor known first as Dan Humphrey from CW’s beloved “Gossip Girl” and again as the protagonist of “You”—so there’s nothing to worry about.

As Eminem’s 2000 hit “The Real Slim Shady” plays from the car stereo, it takes Badgley back to before he became TV’s complex antihero. Meanwhile, outside the car, he’s advancing toward the final moments of “You,” with its upcoming season finale on Netflix. Badgley is ready to move on from Joe.

“I’m happy we’re closing that chapter,” he remarks, eager to leave behind the intellectual yet sinister character he’s brought to life.”