The film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's novel It Ends with Us has been embroiled in significant controversy involving its lead actors, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. Tensions reportedly began during the film's promotion in the summer of 2024, where Lively and Baldoni notably avoided interaction, sparking rumors of a feud.
In December 2024, Blake Lively filed a lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment during the film's production. She alleged that Baldoni, along with producer Jamey Heath, orchestrated a smear campaign to tarnish her reputation in retaliation for her complaints.
In response, Justin Baldoni filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist Leslie Sloan, alleging extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy. Baldoni claimed that Lively's actions were part of a coordinated effort to damage his career and the film's success.
The situation further escalated when Baldoni accused Lively of naming a drink after the film's domestic abuser character, Ryle Kincaid, at a premiere afterparty, which he argued demonstrated insensitivity towards the film's serious themes.
These legal battles have had professional repercussions for both parties. Baldoni was dropped by his talent agency, WME, and faced significant setbacks in his career, including rescinded awards and loss of representation. Conversely, Lively received support from various industry figures and organizations, including the actors' union SAG-AFTRA and author Colleen Hoover.
As of January 21, 2025, the legal disputes between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni remain ongoing, with both parties steadfast in their respective allegations. The controversy has cast a shadow over the film's release and has sparked broader discussions about workplace conduct and the handling of sensitive subject matter in the entertainment industry.
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