Is Serena van der Woodsen destined to put down roots in La-La Land?

We don't see that happening, but at least for now, that's where L.A. native Blake Lively will be filming scenes for her character. Starting August 1, a Hollywood storyline including a casting agency and some possible real estate purchases will be filmed.

It's unclear how long she'll stay or what her storyline entails, but this is the second straight Gossip Girl season opening with her thousands of miles from NYC.

How will the Upper East Sider who's always heard but never seen keep tabs on her? Speaking of Kristen Bell, she will remain on the show to do her voiceovers, despite being cast on the new series House of Lies, according to E! Online.

Gossip Girl herself is rumored to be an integral part of the storyline of Elizabeth Hurley's character. We doubt she will be unmasked, but we're intrigued.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.