While I haven't been on the Gossip Girl bandwagon for as long as most people, I've seen enough episodes to know who my favorite character is. And that, contrary to popular opinion, is Jenny Humphrey. I know, I know, everyone's probably rolling their eyes right now, but just hear me out. There's more to Little J then you might think.
For one thing, she's one of the only characters to go through a major inner and outer transformation. While yes, when Blair found Chuck she began to believe in love and Serena changed her trouble-making ways, Jenny truly came into her own. She discovered herself through her mistakes, and she never really claimed that she was perfect. I found that really unique, especially in the background of the elitist NYC. In terms of her image, she changed her hair, style and makeup which showed her adaptability and evolution. It was very cool to see someone willing to change and to do so in a believable way. It never came off as fake (with the exception of trying to fit in with Blair's friends at that slumber party in season 1).
Yes, so she may have made some mistakes (kissing Nate, the whole fashion show debacle and a few other ones), but at least she owned up to them. She cried to Eric about everyone hating her and admitted that her screwing up was why. She apologized to Blair and eventually came clean about Juliet's scheme, which sort of redeemed her character. She even took the opportunity to get away from the city in order to get her life back together instead of getting involved in another queen bee battle. I thought that took guts and showed some maturity on her part.
Despite all the drama, Jenny did end up following through on her dreams of being a fashion designer. Her sewing machine in her room during the first two seasons was replaced by her own clothing line with Blair's company at the end of season 6. She showed that true talent never completely goes to waste. She also showed that people can change, either for better or for worse. In her case, both happened, which showed her to be human and not immune to the crazy lifestyle of New York. Her character wasn't a stranger to struggles, which made her relatable in my eyes and I'm sure some other fans. Plus, her style game was so strong each season. She was true to herself, and that's what made her, her.
Here's to you, Little J. Thanks for being one (fictional) cool chick.
