## Lively and Reynolds Make Public Appearance Amidst Legal Dispute
NEW YORK CITY – Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds offered a rare glimpse into their lives as they attended the Time100 gala, even as legal proceedings against actor Justin Baldoni continue.
Lively captivated onlookers in a strapless pink gown, her blonde hair styled elegantly to one side. She completed the look with striking green earrings. Meanwhile, Reynolds opted for a classic black suit and bow tie during the joint appearance.
The couple’s red carpet arrival was marked by lighthearted banter amidst the ongoing legal complexities. As photographers documented their presence, Lively quipped, “It’s so nice without the yelling,” to which Reynolds responded with a smile, “I know, right? It’s so cordial.”
In a playful exchange with the press, Reynolds added, “We do singles too. Don’t worry. She’ll leave,” before jokingly instructing them to move him along the carpet with a mock exasperation: “I’ll f— off. Don’t worry.”
Recognition and Controversy
Prior to the gala, Lively was recognized as a “Titan” on Time magazine’s influential people list – a designation that sparked immediate online discussion given her current legal battle with Baldoni.
The dispute between Lively and Baldoni began following their work together on the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s “It Ends With Us.” Lively initially filed suit against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment during filming. Baldoni subsequently denied these accusations and launched a counter-suit.
A Profile in Philanthropy
Despite the controversy surrounding her inclusion on the Time100 list, civil rights leader Sherrilyn Ifill offered a compelling perspective on Lively’s character in her accompanying profile.
“I don’t know the Blake Lively of the red carpet… The Blake Lively I know is a philanthropist and a student of our country’s most intractable problems,”
Ifill wrote, highlighting Lively’s commitment to social issues. She further elaborated on their initial interaction, stating,
“I admired immediately her curiosity, and her sincere work to understand the conditions that shape this country… Her commitment to filling those gaps — and becoming the most fully informed and prepared citizen — is what I appreciate most about her.”
Ifill also noted Lively’s substantial $2 million donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund in 2019, emphasizing it was “part of a broader impact, not the sole reason for her recognition.”
Social Media Reactions
The announcement of Lively’s inclusion on the list wasn’t universally embraced. Some social media users questioned the selection, suggesting it was a calculated public relations move.
- “Blake Lively?!?! good heavens, what did her PR team pay you to get her on that list?”
- “Blake Lively probably made the donation to the NAACP in 2019 after people found out she and her hubby were married on a plantation…”
However, others defended Lively’s recognition, praising her philanthropic efforts and engagement with social causes.
Escalating Legal Battle
The legal battle between Lively and Baldoni has become increasingly complex. Lively’s lawsuit accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and a subsequent smear campaign aimed at damaging her reputation following the film’s release.
Baldoni’s response suit, filed in New York, accuses Lively of tormenting him and his associates. He claims she lacks evidence of a deliberate smear campaign and is instead attempting to repair her image by accusing others of misconduct.
Ryan Reynolds has also been named as a defendant in Baldoni’s lawsuit, facing allegations of “defamation, false light invasion of privacy, tortious interference, and civil extortion,” with the court documents referring to him as a “co-conspirator.”
The legal dispute shows no signs of resolution, with both parties appearing unwilling to settle outside of court.
