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The adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel It Ends With Us seemed destined for success, featuring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni in lead roles. While the film grossed $350 million worldwide and received a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, behind-the-scenes tensions overshadowed its achievements. Speculation about strained relationships among the cast and crew culminated in Blake Lively’s December 2024 lawsuit against Justin Baldoni. Here’s a comprehensive timeline of the events leading to this controversy:
Summer 2024: Early Signs of Discord
Fans first noticed unusual social media activity among the cast. None of the principal actors—including Blake Lively, Brandon Sklenar, Jenny Slate, Isabela Ferrer, and Alex Neustaedter—followed Justin Baldoni on Instagram, although he followed all of them. Author Colleen Hoover also did not follow Baldoni, sparking further rumors of tensions.
Justin Baldoni’s absence from press events added to the intrigue. While the cast actively promoted the film, Baldoni stayed away, initially attributing his absence to health issues. Fans, however, suspected deeper problems.
August 6, 2024: Premiere Night Drama
The New York City premiere highlighted the growing rift. Baldoni avoided interacting with the cast and chose to sit with his family and Sony executives in a separate theater, while Lively and her guests watched the film in a different screening room.
Jenny Slate’s red carpet comments hinted at dissatisfaction with Baldoni’s dual role as actor and director. Slate remarked, “I just found myself being like, ‘Wow, I really just want to have one job at once.’”
Shortly after, TMZ released footage of an on-set argument between Lively and Baldoni, where Lively appeared visibly frustrated with his direction.
August 20-31, 2024: Allegiances Become Clear
As rumors escalated, Blake Lively received public support from her co-stars and family. Brandon Sklenar defended her on Instagram, urging fans to focus on the film’s message rather than behind-the-scenes drama. Blake’s brother-in-law, Bart Johnson, praised her dedication, stating, “Blake worked harder on this film than anything I’ve seen her do in my entire life.”
Justin Baldoni, meanwhile, attempted damage control by posting messages of solidarity with domestic violence survivors, aligning his statements with the film’s central themes. However, his efforts failed to quell criticism.
December 21, 2024: Blake Lively Files a Lawsuit
The controversy reached its peak when Blake Lively filed a lawsuit in California against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and orchestrated retaliation. The lawsuit detailed:
- Unwanted Physical Contact: Baldoni allegedly improvised kissing scenes without Lively’s consent.
- Inappropriate Discussions: He reportedly shared explicit details about his personal life despite Lively’s objections.
- Exposure to Explicit Material: Producer Jamey Heath allegedly showed Lively a video of his wife giving birth naked.
- Invasion of Privacy: Both Baldoni and Heath were accused of entering Lively’s makeup trailer uninvited.
In her statement to The New York Times, Lively said, “I hope my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics and protects others from experiencing similar treatment.”
Allegations of Retaliation
The lawsuit also accused Baldoni and his team of orchestrating a smear campaign against Lively. Internal communications reportedly revealed plans to manipulate public perception and undermine her credibility. Baldoni hired crisis PR expert Melissa Nathan, known for her work with Johnny Depp, to manage his defense.
Responses and Fallout
- Justin Baldoni: Baldoni’s legal team categorically denied the allegations, labeling them “false and defamatory.”
- Colleen Hoover: The author expressed public support for Lively, commending her integrity and performance.
- Industry Impact: Reports suggest that talent agency WME dropped Baldoni as a client following the allegations.
The Bigger Picture
The It Ends With Us controversy has ignited discussions about workplace ethics in Hollywood. While the film’s success underscored its powerful message about resilience and relationships, the off-screen drama highlighted ongoing issues within the industry. As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how it will impact the careers of those involved.
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