'I Love LA', Leighton On Finding 'Safety' In Rachel's Show After Being In 'Toxic Work Environment'

I Love LA and Leighton Meester's Reflection on Toxic Work Environments

Leighton Meester plays a stereotypical LA publicist named Alyssa in the HBO series I Love LA, where she is the boss of the character Maia, portrayed by Rachel Sennott. While her role does not mirror her real-life experience with her publicist, Meester connected deeply with the show's depiction of a difficult workplace dynamic.

Leighton Meester on Toxic Workplaces

Meester shared her personal experience of having been in toxic work environments. She explained the common reality of being under supervisors who do not provide support or encouragement, saying:

"I've been in toxic work environments. I think that a lot of people have experienced that, being around people who sort of... I don't know, just, like, you have a boss that maybe doesn't uplift you, or whatever."

Industry Reactions and Safe Creative Spaces

During an interview with PEOPLE alongside co-star Josh Hutcherson, he expressed surprise at Meester's admission. He asked, "In this industry, that's happened to you?" to which she replied, "It's shocking."

Meester also reflected positively on working in a safe and comedic environment like I Love LA, which allowed her to explore the toxic work theme with freedom:

"It was really fun to play with in a safe, comedic environment."

She added that this experience gave her a renewed thrill and freedom in her performance.

Author's Summary

Leighton Meester found a refreshing creative outlet in I Love LA, using its safe comedic setting to revisit and express the challenges of toxic work experiences she personally endured.

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BollywoodShaadis BollywoodShaadis — 2025-11-10

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