Since the release of "It Ends With Us," tensions have arisen between its stars, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, amidst accusations of harassment and a detrimental PR campaign. Despite mixed reviews, the film based on Colleen Hoover's best-selling novel has raked in over $350 million, but behind-the-scenes drama casts a shadow over its success.
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni at the Center of a Controversial Film Release
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni at the Center of a Controversial Film Release
The release of "It Ends With Us" has not only achieved box office success but has spiraled into a public controversy involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni.
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's recent film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's novel, "It Ends With Us," has not only captivated audiences with its box office success, grossing over $350 million globally, but has also stirred a whirlwind of controversy surrounding the relationship between its lead stars. The 2019 announcement of Baldoni's adaptation was met with immediate excitement, marking the novel as a massive cultural phenomenon, particularly among younger audiences on platforms like TikTok, where it garnered more than one billion tags.
Lively, known for her iconic role in "Gossip Girl," portrayed Lily Bloom, a young florist navigating a tumultuous love triangle involving Ryle Kincaid—Baldoni's character—and her first love, Atlas Corrigan (played by Brandon Sklenar). While the film's financial triumph seemed assured after its release in August, rumors of discord between Lively and Baldoni surfaced even before the film hit theaters.
Amid the promotional tour, which saw an unusual focus on Lively's haircare line and floral arrangements rather than advocacy for domestic abuse—a central theme of the film—Lively faced backlash for her comments and the tone of the promotional events. Critics pointed to a perceived insensitivity in her remarks, suggesting that the film had romanticized the serious subject of domestic abuse. This controversy was exacerbated by the absence of Lively and Baldoni together during key promotional moments, leading to speculation and intrigue surrounding their off-screen dynamic.
The unrest culminated in Lively filing a legal complaint against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and a systematic smear campaign orchestrated against her. The allegations are severe, implicating Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, in creating a hostile environment on set—claims met with a vigorous denial from Baldoni's legal team. They, in turn, allege that Lively had made threats concerning the promotion and production of the film if her demands were not met, including a promise to disrupt the film's release.
Support has poured in for Lively from her peers in the industry, including America Ferrera and Amber Tamblyn, who expressed solidarity over concerns regarding her safety and workplace conditions while filming. Collaborators, including Hoover herself, have backed Lively, emphasizing her integrity and dedication throughout the project.
As the dust begins to settle, "It Ends With Us" remains a significant piece within contemporary cinema, but overshadowed by the ongoing legal disputes and personal struggles of its leading actors. The situation has developed into a cautionary tale about the intersection of creativity, personal relationships, and the pressing need for accountability in Hollywood.
