Colleen Hoover, the bestselling author of It Ends With Us, publicly expressed her support for actress Blake Lively on Saturday, following news of Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni. Baldoni, who is both Lively’s co-star and the director of the upcoming movie adaptation of It Ends With Us, faces allegations of on-set sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign against Lively.
Colleen Hoover Praises Blake Lively’s Strength
Shortly after Lively went public with her lawsuit, Hoover took to Instagram to share heartfelt words of encouragement. In her Instagram Stories, Hoover posted a photo of herself and Lively embracing at a movie screening, writing:
“@blakelively, 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.”
Hoover’s message highlights the bond she and Lively developed during the promotional events for It Ends With Us, where they often appeared together while Baldoni notably promoted the film on his own.
Behind the Scenes Drama: Lawsuit Exposes Tensions
Blake Lively’s lawsuit paints a disturbing picture of the working environment on the set of It Ends With Us. The legal filing alleges a hostile production environment led by Justin Baldoni, including accusations of sexual harassment and inappropriate comments about his past “pornography addiction,” sexual conquests, and cast and crew members’ genitalia.
The toxic atmosphere reportedly escalated to the point where Sony Pictures held an emergency meeting. According to the lawsuit, a list of demands was drawn up for Baldoni, urging him to curb his behavior. However, the tension allegedly persisted, resulting in what Lively describes as a “smear campaign” against her led by Baldoni’s team.
Allegations of Retaliation and Smear Campaign
Lively’s lawsuit further alleges that Baldoni, in collaboration with the publicity department at Wayfarer Studios and a crisis management expert, orchestrated efforts to tarnish her reputation. This included press leaks, social media posts, and disturbing messages attributed to Baldoni’s publicist that reportedly read:
- “We can’t write we will destroy her.”
- “[Baldoni] wants to feel like [Lively] can be buried.”
Lively claims these actions caused her “severe emotional distress” and made the production process unbearably hostile.
Blake Lively Speaks Out
In a statement to The New York Times, Lively expressed her hope that her legal action would spark meaningful change in the entertainment industry.
“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,” Lively said.
Colleen Hoover and the Industry React
While Hoover’s public support emphasizes her admiration for Lively, the allegations against Baldoni have cast a shadow over the much-anticipated adaptation of It Ends With Us. The lawsuit, combined with a Rolling Stone report detailing on-set drama, suggests deeper issues within the production.
As the legal case unfolds, the entertainment industry is paying close attention, raising questions about accountability, workplace safety, and the power dynamics that can leave actors vulnerable.
What’s Next?
The lawsuit has brought to light serious allegations and renewed conversations about the treatment of women in Hollywood. Fans of It Ends With Us and advocates for justice alike will be watching closely as this case develops, hoping for a resolution that promotes transparency and fairness in the industry.
