Blake Lively did not anticipate the intense backlash she would face following the box-office success of her film It Ends With Us. During the press tour for the movie, the 37-year-old actress found herself under fire for certain comments and remarks she made, drawing significant criticism.
A source told People Magazine that Lively was “pretty surprised at the backlash and drama” that followed the film’s release. “She initially felt very vulnerable and upset,” the source explained, adding, “During the promotion of the movie, not one day went by when she was not in the news in an unfavorable light. She’s just not used to this kind of drama.”
The situation left Lively feeling that things were “out of control.” Despite the negative attention, the source emphasized that Lively “enjoys working and will continue to push forward projects that she’s excited about.”
Adding to the controversy was speculation about a feud between Lively and her co-star and director, Justin Baldoni. Reports suggested the two had creative disagreements during production, which heightened tensions. Baldoni, who also stars in the film, was noticeably absent from photographs with Lively at the premiere, and the two did not participate in any press events together, fueling further speculation about their rift.
Lively was also criticized for promoting her personal business ventures during the movie’s press tour. Additionally, she faced backlash for making light of the film’s central theme—domestic abuse—which many felt was insensitive to survivors. In contrast, Baldoni’s heartfelt message of support for domestic abuse survivors during the press tour cast a more negative light on Lively’s actions.
As of now, Lively has not addressed the backlash publicly, but the controversy continues to surround her involvement in the film. Despite the drama, her commitment to future projects remains firm, as she looks forward to taking on new work.