From Gossip Girl to Grinch: Taylor Momsen’s Rock Reckoning in 2026
Taylor Momsen is commanding the charts and the stage as 2026 kicks off, proving her transition from teen TV star to rock powerhouse is complete. The frontwoman of The Pretty Reckless just scored a No. 1 hit with a blistering holiday cover, is headlining a massive South American tour, and is opening up about her past in a series of revealing interviews. This isn’t the Jenny Humphrey you remember—this is a seasoned rock vocalist owning her legacy.
Her recent performance of “Where Are You, Christmas?” on *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* was a full-circle moment, paying homage to her role in the 2000 film *How the Grinch Stole Christmas*. But the nostalgia ends there. Momsen is firmly focused on the future, with new music, global tours, and candid reflections on her journey through fame, depression, and artistic freedom defining her current chapter.
The Pretty Reckless: 2026 Tour & Chart Domination
Related Video: Taylor Momsen: Why I Finally Recorded a Rock Version of "The Grinch" Song
While many artists slow down after the holidays, Taylor Momsen and her band are hitting the road hard. The Pretty Reckless has a packed international schedule for the first half of 2026, bringing their hard rock sound to stadiums across South America and beyond. This follows their hugely successful run as a support act for AC/DC’s “Power Up” tour, which Momsen called a career highlight, stating they “made some lifelong friends” with the legendary band.
Upcoming 2026 Tour Dates
| Date | Venue | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tue, Feb 24, 2026 | Estádio MorumBis | São Paulo, Brazil |
| Wed, Mar 11, 2026 | National Stadium Sports Park | Ñuñoa, Chile |
| Mon, Mar 16, 2026 | To Be Announced | Buenos Aires, Argentina |
According to Songkick, the band is currently scheduled for 36 concerts across 12 countries. Fans can expect a setlist blending their gritty anthems like “Make Me Wanna Die” with their recent festive chart-topper.
A Christmas No. 1 for the Rock Charts
In a stunning feat, Momsen’s rock rendition of “Where Are You, Christmas?”—featured on her EP *Taylor Momsen’s Pretty Reckless Christmas*—soared to No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Hard Rock Songs chart. The track, accompanied by a nostalgic music video referencing *The Grinch*, showcases her powerful vocals and the band’s ability to reinvent a classic with a dark, emotional edge. The EP is available on exclusive neon green vinyl through the band’s official store.
Momsen Speaks: On Gossip Girl, Grief, and Soundgarden
In a series of recent interviews, Momsen has been remarkably transparent about her career and personal struggles, painting a picture of an artist who has fought for her creative identity.
Leaving the Upper East Side Behind
In a 2025 interview with Variety, Momsen detailed the difficult battle to exit the hit series *Gossip Girl* during its fourth season. She revealed that studio executives deemed her “ungrateful” for wanting to leave to focus on her music with The Pretty Reckless. “I had to fight for it,” Momsen stated, confirming that her departure was a conscious choice to pursue rock music, not a firing.
Confronting Personal Demons
Speaking to NME, Momsen reflected openly on her past battles with depression, grief, and substance abuse. “Luckily, I chose to move forward,” she said, discussing how channeling those experiences into songwriting has been a crucial part of her healing process and artistic growth. This vulnerability has resonated deeply with fans, adding layers of authenticity to her music.
Future Collaborations: A Soundgarden Tour?
Following a powerful performance at Soundgarden’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, Momsen expressed strong interest in a potential collaboration. In an interview with Blunt Mag, she called the iconic grunge band “some of my heroes” and confirmed she is “open to touring with Soundgarden,” sparking excitement among fans of both acts about a potential future tour.
Taylor Momsen: A Career Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Taylor Michel Momsen |
| Born | July 26, 1993 (Age 32) |
| Known For | Lead Singer of The Pretty Reckless, Actress (*Gossip Girl*, *The Grinch*) |
| Current Focus | 2026 World Tour, New Music, Christmas EP |
| Major Career Shift | Left acting in 2011 to focus full-time on rock music. |
Common Questions
Why did Taylor Momsen leave Gossip Girl?
Taylor Momsen chose to leave *Gossip Girl* in Season 4 to focus entirely on her music career with her band, The Pretty Reckless. She has stated it was a difficult decision, and she faced pushback from studio executives who labeled her as “ungrateful,” but she fought for her release to pursue rock music.
Is The Pretty Reckless touring in 2026?
Yes, The Pretty Reckless has an extensive 2026 tour scheduled, with over 30 dates across 12 countries. The tour kicks off in São Paulo, Brazil, on February 24, 2026, and includes stops across South America. Tickets are available through official vendors like Ticketmaster.
What Christmas song did Taylor Momsen release?
Taylor Momsen and The Pretty Reckless released a rock cover of “Where Are You, Christmas?” in late 2025. The song hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Hard Rock Songs chart and is featured on her EP, *Taylor Momsen’s Pretty Reckless Christmas*, which is available on vinyl and digital platforms.
Is Taylor Momsen touring with Soundgarden?
While not officially announced, Taylor Momsen has expressed strong interest in touring with Soundgarden. After performing at their Rock Hall induction, she called it an honor and stated she is “open to touring with Soundgarden,” leaving the door open for a potential future collaboration.