Actor Penn Badgley celebrates 40th birthday and career milestones

Actor Penn Badgley is celebrating his 40th birthday, marking a career defined by diverse and transformative roles. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Badgley began his television career in the late 1990s with appearances in Will and Grace and The Young and the Restless.

He achieved significant stardom through his role as Dan Humphrey in the series Gossip Girl, which ran for six seasons. His film career includes roles in Easy and Lisey’s Story, as well as portraying musician Jeff Buckley in Salty Songs. Additionally, Badgley is a musician, serving as the vocalist for the indie group MOTHXR.

In recent years, Badgley has become widely recognized for his portrayal of Joe Goldberg in the Netflix series You. The character, an intelligent but obsessive individual, has become a central part of his public image. The fifth and final season of the series is scheduled for release on April 24, 2025, returning the character to New York City.