The legal drama surrounding It Ends With Us has turned a controversial film adaptation into a full-blown Hollywood scandal. Blake Lively’s lawsuit against co-star and director Justin Baldoni has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with accusations of sexual harassment, retaliation, and a smear campaign dominating headlines.
Background: A Troubled Production
The adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel It Ends With Us has faced scrutiny since its inception. After Baldoni’s Wayfarer Studios optioned the book in 2019, development stalled until Blake Lively was cast as Lily Bloom in early 2023. Her casting was met with skepticism due to her perceived misalignment with the character’s age and personality, compounded by unflattering costume designs seen in set photos.
By the time the film premiered in August 2024, tensions were apparent. Lively avoided promotional activities with Baldoni, instead aligning with other cast members, Hoover, and her husband, Ryan Reynolds. Allegations surfaced that Lively and Reynolds had interfered creatively, with Sony Pictures allegedly choosing her preferred cut of the film’s ending.
The Lawsuit: Blake Lively’s Accusations
In her legal filing, Lively accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment during the production and claims he orchestrated a public smear campaign against her in retaliation for raising concerns about misconduct on set. The suit highlights a toxic work environment, alleging that her efforts to advocate for a safe and respectful workplace were met with hostility.
Lively released a statement through Deadline, emphasizing the broader implications of her lawsuit:
“I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who may be targeted.”
Colleen Hoover’s Support for Lively
While Hoover initially supported Baldoni throughout the adaptation process, her stance has shifted. In the wake of the lawsuit, Hoover expressed unwavering support for Lively, sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram alongside a photo of the two at a screening:
“You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive and patient since the day we met. Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt.”
The author’s public backing of Lively raises questions about her evolving perspective on Baldoni and the production dynamics.
Industry Reactions and Ongoing Drama
This legal battle has polarized fans and industry insiders. While Baldoni had previously been viewed as a progressive force in Hollywood, the allegations against him paint a starkly different picture. Meanwhile, Lively’s attempt to reclaim her narrative comes at a time when her public image has faced relentless scrutiny, including resurfaced criticisms of her past behavior.
The lawsuit ensures that the story behind It Ends With Us will continue to unfold, casting a long shadow over an already contentious adaptation. As both sides prepare for a prolonged legal fight, the case is likely to spark broader conversations about workplace conduct, power dynamics, and accountability in Hollywood.
For now, the drama surrounding the film seems far from over—on-screen or off.