Blake Lively Files Sexual Harassment Complaint Against Co-Star Justin Baldoni Amid ‘It Ends With Us’ Controversy

The release of 'It Ends With Us' has been overshadowed by allegations of sexual harassment filed by Blake Lively against co-star Justin Baldoni, sparking both financial success and controversy surrounding the film's promotion and its themes of domestic abuse.

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s collaboration in the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's widely acclaimed novel, "It Ends With Us," has turned from a potential success story into a deeply troubling scandal. When Baldoni first announced his plans to adapt the book in 2019, excitement swirled around the casting of Lively, known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in "Gossip Girl." As Lily Bloom, she portrays a young woman entangled in a complicated romantic relationship marked by domestic abuse.

Released in early August, "It Ends With Us" accrued over $350 million globally, but the film's success has been accompanied by discord between its leading stars. In a shocking twist, Lively filed a legal complaint against Baldoni weeks after the film’s premiere, alleging sexual harassment and the initiation of a smear campaign aimed at damaging her reputation. Baldoni, known for his role in "Jane the Virgin," strongly denies these accusations.

While promoting the film, the press tour drew attention for its tone-deaf approach to the serious themes of the story. Critics, including domestic abuse survivor Ashley Paige, lambasted Lively’s promotional strategy that prioritized glamour over serious discussions around abuse. During the tour, Baldoni's conspicuous absence from red carpet events together with Lively fueled rumors of tension between the two co-stars.

As the film's promotional activities unfolded, social media speculation escalated, particularly regarding why they didn’t appear together. It was noted that many cast members, including Lively, unfollowed Baldoni on social media. Amidst mixed critical reactions to the film itself, some reviews suggested it romanticized domestic violence rather than addressing it sensitively, further complicating the film's already contentious reception.

In the wake of the mounting allegations, Baldoni’s team hired a crisis manager, while Lively faced a wave of backlash online, exacerbated by unflattering old interviews resurging in media. Lively’s legal complaint cites a hostile work environment during filming, which she claims was acknowledged in a January meeting attended by both Baldoni and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, among others. Allegations included inappropriate conduct on set and a list of demands to ensure her safety and comfort during filming.

Stirring more controversy, Lively accused Baldoni and his team of retaliatory actions following the meeting, claiming they aimed to ruin her image by orchestrating harmful narratives against her. In response, Baldoni's legal representatives labeled Lively's allegations as unfounded, contending that she made unreasonable demands and threats throughout production.

The unfolding drama has prompted support for Lively from several Hollywood figures, including fellow actresses America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel. They issued a statement expressing solidarity and condemning the alleged campaign against her.

As discussions continue about the implications of these allegations both within the film industry and beyond, the larger conversation around domestic abuse representation in media also comes under scrutiny, leaving fans and onlookers questioning the dynamics at play during the making of "It Ends With Us."