Leighton Meester Reflects on 'Toxic Work Environments' Through HBO's I Love LA
Leighton Meester plays a stereotypical Los Angeles publicist in the HBO series I Love LA, where she is the boss of Maia, portrayed by Rachel Sennott. While her personal experiences with her own publicist differ from the show's portrayal, Meester acknowledged that parts of the story resonated deeply with her.
Experiencing Toxic Workplaces
During a discussion about the complicated relationship between Maia, who seeks a promotion, and Meester’s character Alyssa, the actress opened up about her past struggles. 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."
Industry Shock and a Safer Set
Meester was interviewed alongside her co-star Josh Hutcherson, who expressed surprise at her admission. He asked,
"In this industry, that's happened to you?"
To which Meester replied,
"It's shocking."
She also shared how working on I Love LA provided a positive change. The show offered a "safe, comedic environment" to explore the dynamics of toxic work life, allowing her to embrace the creative process with renewed excitement.
"The fact that Leighton didn’t exactly do so, in some ways, freed me to really feel the thrill of the ride."
Summary
Leighton Meester relates to the toxic workplace theme in I Love LA, finding comfort and creative freedom in the show's safe comedic space.