Penn Badgley Opens Up on Body Dysmorphia, 'You'

Penn Badgley, known for his roles in 'Gossip Girl' and Netflix's 'You,' has revealed that his struggle with body dysmorphia began during his teens, influenced by his parents' divorce and the demands of public life. He explained that Hollywood's focus on appearance contributed to insecurities and depression, causing him to equate self-worth with physical image. Badgley criticized sex scenes in television for lacking realism and being included mainly for titillation rather than exploring genuine intimacy. Reflecting on his role as Joe Goldberg in 'You,' Badgley said the character prompted profound self-examination about masculinity and darker human tendencies, and he expressed relief at the series' conclusion amid changing social sensitivities. He also acknowledged troubling similarities between himself and his character, highlighting the importance of recognizing and avoiding toxic behaviors. Through his experiences, Badgley has become an advocate for more honest conversations about mental health, body image, and media representation.