Penn Talks The Beginning & End of 'Gossip Girl'

The last chapter in Gossip Girl's tale of opulence, backstabbing and social climbing begins on October 8 with Gone Maybe Gone, the final season premiere. And while fans are saddened to see the series go, the stars seem rather OK with shooting about to wrap.

"[It feels] great," Penn Badgley told NY Magazine about the conclusion. "I'm so secure in feeling like I just can do what I want now. And I don't know what that is yet, but it's just nice. I can live and be myself and see what it's like to not have to go to work every day, all day."

PHOTO - Newlywed Blake Lively Gets Back To Work

Although Penn is quick to say he's grateful to Gossip Girl, and all the Powers That Be, for the professional boost. "I absolutely appreciate the opportunity it's been," he said while promoting Greetings From Tim Buckley at the Toronto International Film Festival. "I wouldn't be here without Gossip Girl, so I will always be in debt and grateful. I think it's already in the rear-view mirror and I do appreciate it more now. You know, I've always been honest about how I feel about the show — which, every now and then, has bitten me in the ass — but I've always been appreciative. I've always forced myself to just accept that it's good. I mean, nothing's perfect."

PHOTOS - First Look at Penn as Jeff Buckley

One of those imperfect elements was the culmination of his character's season-long relationship with Blair Waldorf, played by Leighton Meester. Something that has divided fans in a big way.

"I did [enjoy that storyline], actually," Penn says. "Well, I didn't like how it ended, because it was just kind of [draws in breath sharply]. But I do like the scenes with Leighton because I get to kind of interact in a fun way with her. When Dan and Blair are together, I think that's him at his brightest, maybe."

PHOTO - Dair Reunited, What Does It Mean?

So what does the final season hold for Dan not that Dair is dead (sorry, but it's true)? The synopsis for Gone Maybe Gone reveals that Dan has written a new book. One that promises to make even more trouble than the first -- but according to the press release, "This time he has no desire to remain anonymous."

Recent set shots also reveal Dan and Serena (played by Blake Lively) will be spending a lot of time together in the final 13 episodes -- which has me wondering if the show plans to come full circle with S and Lonely Boy back together, and "Chair" reunited at long last.