Kaylee DeFer, best known to “Gossip Girl” fans as the cunning Ivy Dickens, actually started her journey in the world of acting way back at just eight years old. Yep, that’s right—DeFer was already performing in theater during her early childhood. Growing up in Tucson, she stayed active in the arts, regularly taking part in high school plays and honing her craft. It wasn’t long before her talent caught the attention of casting directors, and by 2004, DeFer officially launched her professional career with appearances on popular series like “Drake & Josh” and “The Mountain.”
Then came 2005—a big year for DeFer. She landed the role of Hillary, the sharp-witted teenage daughter, in the family sitcom “The War at Home,” showcasing her range beyond guest spots. That same year, DeFer made her mark on the big screen with her feature film debut in “Upperclassmen,” proving she could handle both television and film with ease. While many recognize DeFer for her standout performance as Ivy Dickens on “Gossip Girl,” she’s also built an impressive resume with guest roles on hit shows like “Ghost Whisperer,” “Bones,” and “CSI: Miami.” Through it all, DeFer has continued to evolve as an actress, bringing depth and nuance to every character she portrays.
When it comes to Kaylee Defer’s acting career, one film that really stands out is Flicka from 2006—it’s definitely her highest rated movie and a major highlight in her filmography. Fans and critics alike seem to agree that this role showcased Kaylee Defer’s talent in a big way. On the other hand, looking at her body of work, Underclassman (2005) tends to receive more mixed or lower reviews, making it one of the less acclaimed projects associated with Kaylee Defer. Still, every actor has peaks and valleys, and for Kaylee Defer, Flicka remains a strong point in her cinematic journey.