Did Matthew Settle And Kelly Rutherford Date? Unpacking The Gossip Girl Romance Rumors

Olen Parisian 20 Aug 2025

The captivating world of *Gossip Girl* gave us so many memorable pairings, but perhaps none sparked as much real-world curiosity as the on-again, off-again romance of Lily van der Woodsen and Rufus Humphrey. Their journey, a rather classic tale of reunited first loves, really resonated with lots of viewers. This deep connection on screen, you know, often makes people wonder about the actors who bring those characters to life.

For years, fans have pondered a question that seems to pop up whenever the show gets talked about: did Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford, the talented actors behind Lily and Rufus, actually date in real life? It's a query that keeps circulating, especially when folks are looking back at the show's enduring charm. The chemistry between them was, like, undeniably strong, making it easy to imagine a real-life connection blossoming off-set.

This article aims to clear things up about the relationship between Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford. We'll explore the reasons why so many people thought they might have been a couple, look at what they've said about their bond, and ultimately, give you the lowdown on whether their on-screen love story spilled over into their personal lives. It's a bit of a fun investigation, actually, into a question that still sparks interest among *Gossip Girl* followers.

Biographies of the Stars
- Matthew Settle: Personal Details & Bio Data
- Kelly Rutherford: Personal Details & Bio Data
The Lily and Rufus Phenomenon: Why Fans Thought They Dated
Rumors and Speculation: The Gossip Mill
What Matthew and Kelly Said About Their Relationship
Their Enduring Bond Beyond the Set
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: The Truth About Their Relationship

Biographies of the Stars

Before we get into the heart of the matter, it's worth taking a moment to look at the people involved. Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford are both seasoned actors with considerable careers, and their roles on *Gossip Girl* certainly brought them a new level of recognition, particularly as a beloved on-screen couple. Knowing a little about their backgrounds can, in a way, give more context to their public personas and interactions.

Matthew Settle: Personal Details & Bio Data

Category	Detail
Full Name	Jeffrey Matthew Settle
Date of Birth	September 17, 1969
Place of Birth	Hickory, North Carolina, USA
Occupation	Actor
Known For	Rufus Humphrey in Gossip Girl, Band of Brothers, U-571
Spouse(s)	Naama Nativ (m. 2006; div. 2009)
Children	A daughter, Aven Angelica Settle

Matthew Settle, a rather talented performer, has been in the acting world for quite some time. Before he became the charming, guitar-playing dad on *Gossip Girl*, he had roles in various films and television shows. He's known for bringing a certain warmth to his characters, and that quality really shone through as Rufus Humphrey, a former rock star turned art gallery owner. His portrayal helped make the character a grounding force in the sometimes chaotic lives of the Upper East Side elite.

Kelly Rutherford: Personal Details & Bio Data

Category	Detail
Full Name	Kelly Rutherford
Date of Birth	November 6, 1968
Place of Birth	Elizabethtown, Kentucky, USA
Occupation	Actress
Known For	Lily van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, Megan Lewis in Melrose Place
Spouse(s)	Carlos Tarajano (m. 2001; div. 2002), Daniel Giersch (m. 2006; div. 2010)
Children	A son, Hermes Gustaf Daniel Giersch; a daughter, Helena Grace Rutherford Giersch

Kelly Rutherford has a rather extensive career in television, particularly in popular soap operas and prime-time dramas. Her role as Lily van der Woodsen on *Gossip Girl* cemented her status as a television icon, portraying a character who was both elegant and complex. Lily's storyline, with its ups and downs, very much kept viewers engaged, and Kelly's performance helped make the character incredibly believable. Her ability to portray a strong yet vulnerable woman made her a perfect match for Rufus on screen.

The Lily and Rufus Phenomenon: Why Fans Thought They Dated

The on-screen chemistry between Lily and Rufus was, well, pretty undeniable. Their characters represented a more grounded, mature love story amidst the often dramatic and youthful romances of the show's main cast. They had this history, a shared past that made their reunion feel incredibly special and, in a way, almost destined. Viewers really rooted for them, and their scenes together often had a warmth and authenticity that stood out. It's almost as if they were meant to be.

Fans, you see, often get really invested in the characters they love, and that investment sometimes extends to the actors themselves. When two performers share such a natural connection on screen, it's quite common for people to wonder if that spark carries over into real life. Matthew and Kelly's interactions as Lily and Rufus felt so genuine, so comfortable, that it was easy for viewers to imagine them sharing a similar bond off-camera. This kind of thinking is, you know, pretty typical for dedicated fans.

The way they looked at each other, the subtle gestures, the way they delivered their lines – all of it contributed to this feeling that they were more than just colleagues. It created a powerful narrative for the audience, one that transcended the script. So, when people asked, "did Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford date?", it wasn't just idle gossip; it was a reflection of how deeply their performances had affected viewers, making the on-screen relationship feel, like, incredibly real.

Rumors and Speculation: The Gossip Mill

The rumors about Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford dating really started to gain traction during *Gossip Girl*'s original run. Paparazzi photos of them together off-set, attending events, or just grabbing coffee, would often surface. These images, while usually innocent, were sometimes interpreted by fans and media outlets as proof of a romantic connection. You know, it's just how the gossip mill tends to work, taking small moments and sometimes blowing them up.

Social media, even back then, played a part too. Actors would sometimes post pictures with their co-stars, and fans would analyze every detail, looking for signs of romance. For Matthew and Kelly, their friendly interactions, their comfortable demeanor around each other, and their obvious mutual respect were sometimes seen as evidence of something more. It's a bit like looking for clues, even when there aren't any hidden messages.

It's important to remember that actors often spend a huge amount of time together on set, sometimes more than they spend with their own families. They develop close bonds, friendships, and a deep sense of camaraderie. This closeness, however, can easily be mistaken for romance by those outside the immediate circle. So, the constant presence of Matthew and Kelly together, given their on-screen dynamic, really fueled the speculation. People were, you know, just very curious.

What Matthew and Kelly Said About Their Relationship

Despite the persistent rumors, both Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford have consistently maintained that their relationship was, and remains, a very close friendship. They have, in fact, often spoken about their deep respect for each other as colleagues and as people. Kelly, for instance, has often referred to Matthew as a wonderful friend and a supportive presence in her life, especially during some challenging personal times. It's a bond that, you know, seems to go beyond just work.

Matthew, for his part, has echoed similar sentiments. He has described Kelly as a truly lovely person and a great scene partner. They shared a unique experience bringing Lily and Rufus to life, and that shared journey, in a way, created a special connection between them. It's the kind of bond that can develop when you work intensely with someone for many years, especially on a show that becomes a significant part of your lives. So, it's pretty clear they hold each other in high regard.

In various interviews over the years, they've both been quite clear about the platonic nature of their relationship. They never confirmed any romantic involvement, and their public statements have always pointed towards a strong, supportive friendship. This consistent messaging, you know, really helps to put the rumors to rest. It shows that sometimes, great on-screen chemistry is just that: great acting and a genuine professional bond.

Their Enduring Bond Beyond the Set

Even after *Gossip Girl* ended its run, Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford have remained close. They've been seen together at various events, sometimes supporting each other's projects or simply catching up. This continued friendship, in a way, speaks volumes about the genuine connection they share. It's not just a bond that dissolved once the cameras stopped rolling; it's something that has, you know, lasted for years.

Kelly, particularly, has been quite open about Matthew's support during her highly publicized custody battle. She has publicly thanked him for being there for her, which shows a level of friendship that goes far beyond typical co-star relationships. This kind of support, you know, really highlights the depth of their bond, proving that their connection is truly personal and enduring. It's a testament to the strong foundation they built while working together.

They even celebrated holidays together with their children at one point, which further illustrates the family-like dynamic they developed. This sort of closeness is, you know, pretty special in Hollywood, where relationships can sometimes be fleeting. Their continued presence in each other's lives serves as a clear indication that their bond is one of genuine affection and mutual respect, a truly lasting friendship forged through shared experiences. Learn more about friendships in Hollywood on our site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford still friends?

Yes, Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford are indeed still friends. They have maintained a very close relationship since their time working together on *Gossip Girl*. They often show support for each other, attend events together, and have even spent time with their families. Their bond seems to be a very real and lasting friendship, something that, you know, many people admire. It's pretty clear they genuinely care for one another.

Who is Kelly Rutherford dating now?

Kelly Rutherford tends to keep her personal relationships rather private. As of recent public information, she has not publicly confirmed any current romantic partners. Her focus has often been on her children and her career. While she has had relationships in the past, including two marriages, she has not, you know, made any recent romantic partnerships public. She seems to value her privacy quite a bit.

Did Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle have a baby?

No, Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle did not have a baby together. They were never romantically involved in real life, and therefore, they do not share any children. Both actors have children from their respective past relationships. Matthew Settle has a daughter named Aven Angelica Settle, and Kelly Rutherford has a son named Hermes Gustaf Daniel Giersch and a daughter named Helena Grace Rutherford Giersch. The idea of them having a child together is purely from their on-screen roles as Lily and Rufus, who had a daughter named Serena. You can find more details about the Gossip Girl cast and their families on this page.

Conclusion: The Truth About Their Relationship

So, to answer the question that has, you know, lingered for so long: did Matthew Settle and Kelly Rutherford date? The clear answer, based on their own statements and public appearances, is no, they did not. Their incredible on-screen chemistry as Lily and Rufus on *Gossip Girl* was, in fact, a testament to their acting talent and their genuine professional rapport. They created a believable and beloved couple that resonated deeply with viewers, making it easy for fans to hope for a real-life romance.

What they did develop, however, is a very strong and lasting friendship. This bond, forged over years of working closely together, has continued long after the show wrapped up. They have supported each other through personal challenges and have remained a significant part of each other's lives. It's a beautiful example of how deep and meaningful relationships can form in the workplace, even if they aren't romantic in nature. Their connection is, you know, pretty special.

The enduring interest in their relationship speaks volumes about the impact *Gossip Girl* had on its audience. It shows how much people invested in the characters and the stories. While Lily and Rufus found their happy ending on screen, Matthew and Kelly found a very real and supportive friendship off screen, which, in a way, is just as lovely. It's a story of professional respect turning into a very solid, personal bond, and that's something to appreciate. For more on celebrity friendships, you might check out E! Online's coverage of the Gossip Girl cast.

What is Dissociative Identity Disorder? An Infographic Look at DID – Tanya J Peterson – Author

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID): Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

Resale & Secondhand Marketplaces

Did Matthew Settle And Kelly Rutherford Date? Unpacking The Gossip Girl Romance Rumors

Table of Contents