The video in question, shot during a Comic-Con interview for the movie “Accepted”, shows Lively alongside co-stars Justin Long and Jonah Hill. It captures a moment where Lively, attempting to establish her geek credentials, recounts a story where she and a friend used bronzer and a ‘fro wig to disguise themselves as Black women to impress some boys at an arcade. “I thought they would think I was like a Black girl,” Lively joked in the interview, a comment that has been widely criticized for its insensitivity towards racial identity and cultural appropriation.
This resurfaced clip has not only stirred reactions on social media but has also brought attention to Lively’s past actions that have been considered racially insensitive. Among these is her Instagram post where she used the caption “L.A. face with an Oakland booty”, and her now-infamous wedding at Boone Hall Plantation, a location known for its dark history tied to slavery.
Backlash and Legal Woes
The timing of this controversy could not be worse for Lively, who is already entangled in a significant legal dispute. Justin Baldoni, her co-star in the film “It Ends With Us”, has filed a lawsuit against her and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, alleging civil extortion, defamation, and more. This lawsuit stems from a prior accusation by Lively against Baldoni regarding workplace harassment, which he claims is unfounded and blames for tarnishing his reputation.
The legal battle and the resurfacing of the blackface video have intensified public scrutiny of Lively. Social media users and cultural commentators are revisiting her previous actions and statements, casting a new light on her personal and professional conduct.
Industry Reactions and Apologies
The backlash has been severe enough to prompt responses from both Lively and her husband. In the past, the couple has apologized for their choice of wedding venue after recognizing its painful historical associations. Reynolds described the mistake as a significant learning experience that spurred them to action rather than inaction. Lively also took to her Instagram, expressing shame over their previous lack of awareness about systemic racism.
These apologies, however, might not suffice to mitigate the current uproar. Fans and critics alike are calling for a more profound change in how celebrities address and interact with cultural sensitivities. The conversation around Lively’s controversies highlights a growing demand for accountability, particularly in how public figures engage with issues of race and history.
Blake Lively’s career is at a crossroads. Once hailed for her performances and public persona, she now faces the challenge of navigating through a landscape that is less forgiving of past mistakes and more demanding of sincere accountability. As Hollywood continues to evolve in its understanding and handling of racial issues, Lively’s story serves as a reminder of the ongoing dialogue necessary for change. It remains to be seen how she will reshape her approach in response to these challenges and what impact this will have on her professional and personal life.