Justin Baldoni, known not only for his acting chops but also his role behind the camera with Wayfarer Studios, had once vocally supported Blake Lively’s potential as a director for the sequel It Starts with Us. During a candid chat with Entertainment Tonight, Baldoni expressed his desire to see Lively take the director’s chair, stating, “I think there are better people for that one. I think Blake Lively is ready to direct, that’s what I think.”
This endorsement came during a tumultuous time for Lively, who faced significant backlash over her promotional tactics for It Ends with Us, which some critics claimed inadvertently glorified domestic violence (DV). Baldoni defended her, acknowledging the sensitive nature of the subject and stating that those upset were “absolutely entitled to that opinion,” as per reports by the Associated Press.
Allegations and Denials
However, the winds shifted dramatically when Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and using social manipulation tactics to damage her reputation. This shocking turn of events was detailed in a lawsuit where Lively cited concerns about Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath’s alleged misconduct towards her and other female cast members.
The legal documents revealed a purported campaign against Lively, involving text messages between publicist Jennifer Abel and crisis communications specialist Melissa Nathan aimed at tarnishing her public image. These revelations paint a starkly different picture of their relationship, far removed from the camaraderie once displayed.
Baldoni’s camp has vehemently denied these accusations. His attorney, Bryan Freedman, countered, describing the claims as “categorically false” and criticizing Lively for using them as a tactic to “fix” her already tarnished reputation. “It is shameful that Ms. Lively and her representatives would make such serious and false accusations…as yet another desperate attempt to rehash a narrative in the media,” Freedman stated.
The Road Ahead
With the legal battle looming, the future of It Starts with Us hangs in the balance, and so does the professional relationship between Lively and Baldoni. What was once a promising collaboration now stands as a battleground of allegations and counter-accusations, each more damaging than the last.
The unfolding drama is a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges of navigating fame, relationships, and responsibility in the spotlight. As this story develops, it will undoubtedly continue to captivate and perhaps even divide public opinion, illustrating once again that in Hollywood, the end of one story is often just the beginning of another.