Ep 1. Yes, Then Zero

Yes, Then Zero is the first episode of season 5 of the popular American teen drama television series, Gossip Girl. The show is set in New York City and follows the lives of a group of wealthy young adults as they navigate their way through high society, relationships, and scandals.

The episode opens with a glimpse into the summer following the events of the previous season. We see Blair (Leighton Meester) and Serena (Blake Lively) vacationing in the south of France, where Blair is living out her dream of becoming a princess. Meanwhile, Serena is attempting to distance herself from her messy love life and focus on finding direction in her career.

Back in New York City, Chuck (Ed Westwick) is focusing on rebuilding his business empire after losing everything. He is also attempting to win back Blair, who has recently become engaged to Prince Louis (Hugo Becker), a kind and charming man who Blair believes will give her the stability and security she craves.

Nate (Chace Crawford) has also been busy over the summer, working as a journalist and attempting to distance himself from his family's scandalous past. However, he finds himself drawn back into the world of high society when he meets a beautiful and seductive older woman named Diana Payne (Elizabeth Hurley).

As the episode progresses, we see the tensions and drama begin to unfold. Blair's engagement to Prince Louis is causing rifts among her friends, who are unsure if he is truly the right fit for her. Serena is struggling to make a name for herself in the world of publishing, and faces some harsh criticism from her boss. Chuck is attempting to prove himself as a savvy businessman while also trying to win back the love of his life. And Nate finds himself in the middle of a risky and potentially dangerous situation with Diana Payne.

Throughout the episode, the theme of power dynamics and control is prevalent. The characters are all struggling to find their place in the world and retain some sense of control over their lives. Blair wants the stability that comes with being a princess, while Serena is searching for meaning and fulfillment in her career. Chuck is trying to rebuild his empire and win back Blair's heart, while Nate is caught up in a dangerous affair with an older woman who holds a great deal of power.

Overall, Yes, Then Zero sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and drama-filled season. The characters are all facing new challenges and obstacles, and it remains to be seen how they will navigate the complicated world of Manhattan's elite. With plenty of juicy gossip, scandalous secrets, and steamy romance, this episode is sure to satisfy fans of the series.