United Kingdom, April 24 -- Penn Badgley became financially independent at the age of 15.

The 38-year-old actor became the main breadwinner for his family while he was still a teenager - but Penn was "close to broke" before landing a role in 'Gossip Girl'.

During an appearance on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast, Penn explained: "I was financially independent by 15. I wasn't always the breadwinner, but I've always needed to and wanted to provide support for my parents since then."

Penn actually felt "tired of television" before he was offered a role in 'Gossip Girl'.

The actor felt "disillusioned" with Hollywood at the time - but he accepted the role of Dan Humphrey in the teen drama series because he needed the money.

He shared: "I was ...