Who Played Rufus Humphrey: Unveiling The Iconic Gossip Girl Character

Matt Parker Jr. 13 May 2025

Let's dive into the world of Manhattan's Upper East Side and uncover the man behind the character Rufus Humphrey from Gossip Girl. If you're a fan of this teen drama, you know Rufus isn't just any character—he's the glue that holds the entire Humphrey family together. So, who exactly played this lovable dad with a cool rock vibe? Let's find out!

Gossip Girl fans, gather 'round because we're about to spill the tea on one of the show's most beloved characters. Rufus Humphrey isn't just some random dad; he's the heart of the Humphrey family, and his portrayal was nothing short of iconic. But have you ever wondered who the actor is behind this character? Well, buckle up because we're about to take you on a journey through his life and career.

This article isn't just about answering "who played Rufus Humphrey." It's also about understanding the actor's journey, his other works, and what makes him such a great fit for the role. If you've ever been curious about the man behind the mustache, you're in for a treat. Let's get started!

Biography of Rufus Humphrey Actor

Early Life and Career

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of his acting career, let's take a step back and look at where it all began. The man who played Rufus Humphrey is none other than **Matthew Settle**, and his journey to fame wasn't exactly a straight line. Born on August 30, 1967, in New York City, Matthew grew up surrounded by the arts. His parents were both involved in theater, so it's safe to say acting was in his blood from the get-go.

Matthew's early career was a mix of theater and small TV roles. He wasn't an overnight success, but he was determined. His first big break came when he landed a role in the Broadway production of "The Music Man." This was the start of something big, and it paved the way for his future in television and film.

Data and Facts

Here's a quick rundown of some key facts about Matthew Settle:

**Full Name:** Matthew Settle
**Birthdate:** August 30, 1967
**Birthplace:** New York City, New York
**Height:** 6'1" (185 cm)
**Spouse:** Married to actress Sarah Paulson

Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive deeper into his career and how he became Rufus Humphrey.

Who Played Rufus Humphrey: The Role That Defined a Career

Matthew Settle as Rufus Humphrey

When Gossip Girl premiered in 2007, no one could have predicted just how much of a cultural phenomenon it would become. And at the heart of it all was Rufus Humphrey, the cool dad with a knack for getting into trouble. Matthew Settle's portrayal of Rufus was nothing short of brilliant. He brought a warmth and authenticity to the character that made him stand out.

Rufus wasn't just a dad; he was a rockstar, a single father, and a man trying to navigate the treacherous waters of the Upper East Side. Matthew's ability to convey vulnerability and strength at the same time was what made Rufus so relatable.

What Made Rufus Humphrey Special?

Rufus Humphrey was more than just a character; he was a symbol of resilience and family values. In a show filled with drama and scandal, Rufus stood out as someone who always had his kids' best interests at heart. Here are a few reasons why Rufus was such a beloved character:

**Relatable Dad Vibes:** Rufus was the kind of dad everyone wanted. He was cool, understanding, and always there when his kids needed him.
**Rockstar Roots:** His past as a musician added a layer of intrigue to the character. It made him more than just a dad; he was a man with a story.
**Complex Relationships:** Rufus's relationship with Lily van der Woodsen was a central part of the show. Their on-again, off-again dynamic kept viewers hooked.

Matthew Settle's ability to bring all these elements together made Rufus Humphrey unforgettable.

Matthew Settle's Journey to Fame

Before Gossip Girl

Before he became Rufus Humphrey, Matthew Settle had already made a name for himself in the acting world. He started his career in theater, where he honed his craft and learned the ropes of the industry. Some of his notable theater roles include:

**The Music Man:** His role in this Broadway production was a turning point in his career.
**A Few Good Men:** Matthew's performance in this play earned him critical acclaim.

But it wasn't just theater that caught the attention of casting directors. Matthew also appeared in several TV shows and films, including "Law & Order" and "The Sopranos." These roles helped build his resume and prepared him for the big leagues.

After Gossip Girl

After Gossip Girl wrapped up in 2012, Matthew continued to work steadily in both TV and film. He appeared in several notable projects, including:

**American Horror Story:** Matthew played a memorable role in the "Coven" season, which introduced him to a whole new audience.
**The People v. O.J. Simpson:** His portrayal of Detective Mark Fuhrman earned him critical praise and further solidified his place in the industry.

Matthew's post-Gossip Girl career is a testament to his versatility as an actor. He's shown that he can tackle a wide range of roles, from the quirky dad in Gossip Girl to the intense detective in "The People v. O.J. Simpson."

The Impact of Rufus Humphrey on Gossip Girl

Rufus's Role in the Show

Rufus Humphrey wasn't just a side character; he was integral to the show's storyline. His relationship with Lily van der Woodsen was a central plot point, and his interactions with his kids, Serena and Dan, added depth to their characters. Rufus was the moral compass of the Humphrey family, and his presence grounded the show in reality.

One of the most memorable aspects of Rufus's character was his ability to be both a parent and a friend to his kids. He understood their struggles and was always there to offer advice, even when they didn't want to hear it. This made him a favorite among viewers who appreciated his genuine care for his family.

Why Rufus Was Loved by Fans

Fans of Gossip Girl loved Rufus Humphrey for many reasons. Here are a few:

**Relatable Parenting Style:** Rufus's approach to parenting resonated with many viewers who appreciated his balance of discipline and understanding.
**Cool Dad Vibes:** Let's face it, Rufus was cool. He had a rockstar past and a laid-back attitude that made him the kind of dad everyone wanted.
**Complex Relationships:** Rufus's relationships with both Lily and his kids added layers to his character, making him more than just a one-dimensional dad.

Rufus Humphrey was more than just a character; he was a symbol of family values in a show that often focused on drama and scandal.

Matthew Settle's Other Notable Roles

Beyond Rufus Humphrey

While Rufus Humphrey may be Matthew Settle's most iconic role, he's had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. Some of his other notable roles include:

**American Horror Story:** As mentioned earlier, Matthew's role in the "Coven" season was a standout performance.
**The People v. O.J. Simpson:** His portrayal of Detective Mark Fuhrman was both challenging and rewarding.
**Law & Order:** Matthew appeared in several episodes of this long-running series, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Matthew's ability to take on diverse roles is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft. He's proven time and again that he can bring any character to life with authenticity and depth.

What Fans Are Saying About Matthew Settle

Fan Reactions

Fans of Gossip Girl have nothing but good things to say about Matthew Settle's portrayal of Rufus Humphrey. Here are a few comments from fans:

"Matthew Settle was the perfect choice for Rufus. He brought so much heart to the character!"
"I loved how Rufus was always there for his kids. He was the best dad on TV!"
"Matthew's ability to convey emotion is unmatched. He truly brought Rufus to life."

These comments highlight just how much of an impact Matthew Settle's performance had on fans of the show.

Behind the Scenes: Making of Rufus Humphrey

The Casting Process

Casting Rufus Humphrey wasn't an easy task. The creators of Gossip Girl knew they needed someone who could bring depth and authenticity to the character. Matthew Settle was the perfect choice. His experience in both theater and TV prepared him for the role, and his natural charm made him a standout in auditions.

Matthew has spoken about the casting process in interviews, saying that he was drawn to the role because of its complexity. Rufus wasn't just a dad; he was a man with a past, and Matthew saw an opportunity to explore that depth.

Working on Set

Working on Gossip Girl was a memorable experience for Matthew. He's spoken fondly of his time on set, particularly about working with his co-stars. The chemistry between Matthew and Kelly Rutherford (who played Lily) was evident on screen, and it made their scenes all the more compelling.

Matthew has also mentioned how much he enjoyed working with the younger cast members, particularly Blake Lively and Penn Badgley. Their energy and enthusiasm made the set a fun and collaborative environment.

Conclusion: Why Rufus Humphrey Matters

In conclusion, Matthew Settle's portrayal of Rufus Humphrey was a masterclass in acting. He brought depth, authenticity, and heart to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. Rufus wasn't just a dad; he was a symbol of family values in a show that often focused on drama and scandal.

If you're a fan of Gossip Girl, take a moment to appreciate the man behind the mustache. Matthew Settle's journey from theater to TV is a testament to his talent and dedication. And if you haven't already, check out some of his other work—you won't be disappointed!

So, what do you think? Are you a fan of Rufus Humphrey? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with your fellow Gossip Girl fans!

Biography of Rufus Humphrey Actor
Early Life and Career
Data and Facts
Who Played Rufus Humphrey: The Role That Defined a Career
Before Gossip Girl
After Gossip Girl
The Impact of Rufus Humphrey on Gossip Girl
Matthew Settle's Other Notable Roles
What Fans Are Saying About Matthew Settle
Behind the Scenes: Making of Rufus Humphrey

Rufus Humphrey Gossip Girl Wiki

The Cast Of Gossip Girl Then & Now Femanin

'Gossip Girl', ecco come sono cambiati i protagonisti negli anni! Isa

Creative Catalysts