Blake Lively’s new film It Ends With Us, adapted from Colleen Hoover’s novel, is making headlines not just for its success but also for rumored tensions between its stars, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni.
The film, which features Lively as Lily Bloom and has already achieved significant box office success, came in at #2 in the US over the weekend. However, speculation about friction between Lively and Baldoni, who plays Ryle and directed the film, has been circulating.
Observers noted that Baldoni did not walk the red carpet or pose for photos with the cast during the movie’s promotions. Additionally, it was discovered that Lively and Hoover do not follow Baldoni on Instagram. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Baldoni downplayed any personal concerns, focusing instead on celebrating the film’s accomplishments and acknowledging the women involved, stating, “This isn’t my night—this is a night for all the women who we made this movie for.”
Rumors suggest that Lively may have taken issue with Baldoni’s handling of the film’s test screenings, and Baldoni has hinted that he might not direct the sequel, with potential alternatives being discussed.
In a recent interview with Elle UK, Baldoni addressed the challenges of balancing acting and directing, subtly touching on the rumored tensions. He remarked, “It’s very challenging to act and direct, especially with a project like this. There was a lot of pressure playing such a complex role as Ryle, and as a filmmaker, you’re always navigating personalities.” He acknowledged that while friction on set is inevitable, it often leads to the creation of compelling art.
Despite the film’s commercial success, it has faced criticism for its portrayal of domestic violence, which some feel is at odds with the film’s promotional tone. What are your thoughts on the rumored friction between Lively and Baldoni?