The famously provocative teen drama Gossip Girl, a series once branded as 'mind-blowingly inappropriate' by critics, is set to become free for UK viewers on a major new platform. From 25 January 2026, the entire series will be available to stream on ITVX, joining its existing homes on Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
A Notorious Legacy Returns
Originally premiering on American network The CW in 2007, Gossip Girl ran for six successful seasons, concluding in 2012 after 121 episodes. Based on Cecily von Ziegesar's novels, the show chronicled the scandalous lives of privileged teenagers on Manhattan's Upper East Side, narrated by an anonymous and vicious blogger. Its content, featuring sexual situations, drug use, and lavish parties, sparked significant controversy upon release.
An early marketing campaign highlighted the show's divisive reception, featuring shocking quotes from publications. The Parents Television Council labelled it 'mind-blowingly inappropriate', the Boston Herald called it 'very bad for you', and the New York Post declared it 'every parent's nightmare'.
Where to Watch and Fan Adoration
Despite the controversy, or perhaps because of it, the series developed by Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage has endured as a massive fan favourite. Its star-studded cast, including Blake Lively (Serena van der Woodsen), Leighton Meester (Blair Waldorf), Penn Badgley (Dan Humphrey), and Chace Crawford (Nate Archibald), became household names.
The drama holds impressive scores of 7.5/10 on IMDB and an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans continue to flock online to share rave reviews, describing the show as 'addicting', a 'guilty pleasure', and praising its fashion, New York setting, and character chemistry. Many cite it as an annual rewatch and a definitive pop culture icon.
What This Means for Viewers
The arrival on ITVX from January 2025 provides another free, ad-supported option for both nostalgic fans and a new generation of viewers to experience the glamour and drama of the Upper East Side. It ensures the series' legacy continues, readily accessible across three major UK streaming services, solidifying its status as a timeless, if contentious, piece of television history.
