Blake Lively, embroiled in a contentious legal dispute with actor Justin Baldoni, has been recognized as a “Titan” on the prestigious Time100 list of influential people. This inclusion sparked considerable reaction online, with some expressing skepticism and accusing it of being a public relations maneuver.
The ongoing conflict between Lively and Baldoni began following their collaboration on the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s “It Ends With Us.” Lively initiated legal action alleging sexual harassment during filming, accusations which Baldoni vehemently denies. Subsequently, Baldoni filed a counter-suit accusing Lively of orchestrating a smear campaign targeting him and his family.
Despite this backdrop of legal wrangling, civil rights advocate Sherrilyn Ifill penned a compelling profile for Time, highlighting a side of Lively often unseen by the public:
“I don’t know the Blake Lively of the red carpet. Or the Met Gala. I never watched ‘Gossip Girl.’ The Blake Lively I know is a philanthropist and a student of our country’s most intractable problems.”
Ifill described being contacted by Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, in 2019 with an offer of support for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. She noted their demonstrated commitment to understanding complex issues, stating:
- Lively’s curiosity and dedication to learning about the conditions shaping the nation are what Ifill most admires.
- She expressed frustration that crucial aspects of American history were absent from her education.
- Ifill emphasized Lively’s willingness to take risks and contribute towards progress for both her children and those of others.
Reactions to Lively’s inclusion on the Time100 list were mixed. Some voiced accusations, as evidenced by social media commentary:
- One user questioned the authenticity of the recognition, suggesting it was a paid promotion.
- Another criticized Lively and Reynolds for donating to the NAACP after being linked to a plantation wedding location.
- A third deemed the list a “joke” due to Lively’s inclusion, questioning the criteria for achieving influence.
However, others defended Lively’s placement on the list, praising her philanthropic endeavors and social engagement.
The legal battle between Lively and Baldoni is intensifying. Crew members involved in “It Ends With Us” have begun to share their perspectives, some of which contradict Lively’s claims. Talia Spencer, a storyboard artist, asserted that Lively attempted to exploit Baldoni’s perceived kindness:
“I feel, like, maybe Blake [Lively] smelled his kindness — mistook it for weakness — and tried to take advantage and take power.”
Spencer further alleged Lively sought control over the film’s direction, undermining Baldoni’s original vision.
Actor Adam Mondschein, who played Dr. Dunbar, corroborated a different version of events regarding a controversial birthing scene, stating Lively was not “nearly nude” as she claimed and wore a full hospital gown with additional costume elements.
With no apparent resolution in sight, legal teams for both parties have indicated that settlement discussions are premature and deemed mediation inappropriate. Judge Lewis Liman has agreed, setting the stage for a trial currently scheduled for 2026.
