Serena van der Woodsen is a fictional character from the young adult novel series, "
Gossip Girl" written by
Cecily von Ziegesar. Described as a rich and popular girl, Serena is featured on the
blog of the novel's series mysterious "Gossip Girl" narrator. Originally intended as the book series' protagonist, she was given the supporting role in favor of
Blair Waldorf,
[McAdam, C. "Chatter In Classes", Cecily von Ziegesar interview. SundayHeraldSalon.com. March 15, 2008. Retrieved on August 28, 2008] her friend and occasional competitor.
In the
Gossip Girl television adaptation, the character is portrayed by
Blake Lively.