Anticipation was high when Justin Baldoni announced in 2019 that he would adapt the best-selling book “It Ends With Us” into a film. However, five years later, fans find themselves grappling with controversy surrounding the project.
Blake Lively, who stars in the film, has filed a civil rights complaint against Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and retaliation during production.
The complaint, lodged with the California Civil Rights Department, alleges that Baldoni engaged in inappropriate behavior on set and later retaliated against Lively for raising concerns. The actress claims Baldoni hired a crisis publicity firm to orchestrate a “social manipulation campaign” aimed at discrediting her during the film’s promotion.
Baldoni’s attorney has denied the allegations, calling them “completely false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious,” and accusing Lively of attempting to protect her public image.
Here’s a detailed timeline of events leading up to the lawsuit:
January 2023: Film Casting Announcement
After acquiring the rights to Colleen Hoover’s bestseller in 2019, Baldoni announced in January 2023 that Blake Lively would star as the film’s lead, with Baldoni himself joining the cast.
May 2023: Filming Delayed by Strikes
Production began in Hoboken, New Jersey, in May 2023, but was halted soon after due to the Hollywood Writers Guild and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Filming resumed in January 2024.
August 9, 2024: Film Release and Public Praise
It Ends With Us premiered in August 2024. Baldoni publicly praised Lively, calling her “strong, funny, and intelligent — all the things you want from a female heroine,” and credited her with significantly enhancing the production.
August 13, 2024: Feud Rumors Emerge
Speculation about tension between Lively and Baldoni surfaced as they noticeably avoided each other during the film’s promotion. Social media users pointed out that the two stars did not follow each other online, while many cast members appeared to side with Lively.
Reports from TMZ suggested the feud stemmed from allegations of fat-shaming, inappropriate comments, and prolonged on-screen kisses initiated by Baldoni. Other rumors suggested interference from Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, during production.
August 15, 2024: Backlash over Lively’s Marketing Approach
Lively faced criticism for her “tone-deaf” approach to marketing the film. Fans expressed disappointment with her promotional efforts, citing a mismatch between her usual upbeat public persona and the serious themes of the movie.
December 21, 2024: Lively Files Lawsuit
In a bombshell lawsuit obtained by TMZ, Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and behavior that caused her “severe emotional distress.” The lawsuit details a meeting involving Lively, Baldoni, Ryan Reynolds, and their respective legal teams, where the actress raised her concerns.
