I Love LA: Leighton Meester on Portraying Toxic Work Environments
Leighton Meester plays a stereotypical Los Angeles publicist named Alyssa, who is the boss of Maia (Rachel Sennott) in the HBO series I Love LA. While her real-life experiences with publicists weren't directly shown, parts of the series resonated with her own past.
Leighton's Experience With Toxic Workplaces
Discussing the show's portrayal of workplace dynamics, Meester revealed she has faced toxic work environments personally. She said,
“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.”
Co-star Reaction
During an interview with PEOPLE, co-star Josh Hutcherson expressed surprise at Meester's admission. He asked,
“In this industry, that's happened to you?”
Meester replied,
“It's shocking.”
Finding Safety in Comedy
Meester reflected on how working on I Love LA provided a “safe” space to explore difficult themes humorously.
“The toxic work environment dynamic was really fun to play with in a safe, comedic environment.”
She added that this sense of safety helped her fully embrace the experience of the role.
Author's summary: Leighton Meester opens up about her real-life experience with toxic workplaces and how playing a publicist on I Love LA allowed her to explore those dynamics in a secure, comedic setting.