'Gossip Girl' Star Missing for 2 Weeks Has Been Found

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Gossip Girl alum Chanel Maya Banks has been found after mysteriously vanishing for two weeks, ending a frantic search that had family, friends, and fans on edge. TMZ broke the news on Wednesday, November 13, reporting that the 36-year-old Hollywood actress isn't only safe but also without injury. As it stands, there's no suspicion of any foul play involved.

According to a GoFundMe page organized by Banks' cousin Danielle-Tori Singh, the Blue Bloods icon hadn't contacted her family since Wednesday, October 30. This unusual silence prompted urgent welfare checks at her apartment on November 7 and 8, but both times, Banks was not there.

Actress Taylor Momsen films scene at the "Gossip Girl" movie set in Chelsea on September 29, 2009 in New York City. Chanel Maya Banks was found after family reported the actress missing in October. Actress Taylor Momsen films scene at the "Gossip Girl" movie set in Chelsea on September 29, 2009 in New York City. Chanel Maya Banks was found after family reported the actress missing in October. Ray Tamarra/Getty Images

The GoFundMe details added to the concern, noting, "The only items we did not locate are her phone and laptop. She also does not go anywhere without her little dog, which also has been left behind." Singh emphasized the gravity of the situation by stating, "She would NEVER go anywhere without telling her mom or myself."

Tensions rose when it was revealed that Banks' husband, known only as CJ, was reportedly uncooperative with the police. (Banks and CJ tied the knot in August 2023.) "We asked him 'Where is Chanel?' and all he continues to say is 'She does not want to be found, she will reach out when she's ready,'" the GoFundMe page states. "He claims he does not know where she is, he says he hasn't seen or heard from her since November 7, but never called police to say she's gone."

Frustrated by her CJ's vague responses, Banks' family flew to Southern California to help find her. Her mother, Judy Singh, and other relatives joined the search as days turned into weeks with no contact. "Five days without hearing from my cousin is red flags and alarm bells," Danielle-Tori told ABC7 Eyewitness News. "She doesn't go more than 48 hours without speaking to me or her mom... That girl is more like a big sister to me."

While details about her disappearance are still unclear, the good news is that the search for Banks is now over.