(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Leighton Meester says she knows what it feels like to be an outsider.

The American actress was born while her mother was serving a prison sentence for drug smuggling. The 24-year-old star - who plays devious socialite Blair Waldorf in television drama Gossip Girl - has hinted that despite her fame, she can still feel isolated.

Whenever Leighton is feeling like an outcast, she retreats into herself and spends time being creative at home.

I think everybody feels that way, Leighton told the British edition of OK! magazine. I secretly like to be alone. I write and I read. I write poetry and songs and it helps.

Leighton is believed to be currently dating her Gossip Girl co-star Sebastian Stan, but has dismissed rumours that the pair are engaged. She has revealed good looks are important to her in a relationship and she likes to feel a spark when it comes to romance.

I like guys who are tall, dark and handsome and who are artistic, who have a good sense of humour, are creative, intelligent and hot! she explained. The other stuff comes first and makes it better for me, but it has to start out with some kind of physical chemistry.

Leighton says the cast of Gossip Girl enjoy having fun together and making jokes, but when it comes down to it they know they are making something they believe in and are always prepared to work hard.

Its an intense show and I think Im ready for it, she added. But theres also such fun and crazy stuff thats happening. (C) Cover Media