Blake Lively has received a powerful show of support from her longtime Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-stars America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel. The trio took to Instagram to express solidarity with Lively, who is embroiled in a lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, her co-star and director in the upcoming film It Ends With Us.
“We stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation,” the actresses wrote. They highlighted their 20-year friendship and praised Lively for her courage in advocating for a safe working environment during the film’s production. “Throughout the filming of It Ends With Us, we saw her summon the courage to ask for a safe workplace for herself and colleagues on set, and we are appalled to read the evidence of a premeditated and vindictive effort that ensued to discredit her voice.”
Allegations of Harassment and Retaliation
Lively’s lawsuit against Baldoni accuses the director of sexual harassment, retaliation, and orchestrating a campaign to damage her reputation. According to the suit, the actress experienced "severe emotional distress" during her time on the project. The complaint outlines allegations of inappropriate behavior on set, including sexual harassment by Baldoni and a toxic work environment that led to an emergency intervention.
The suit claims that Lively and her team requested Baldoni and his associates refrain from making sexually inappropriate comments and additions to the script. Specific demands included that Baldoni stop discussing his past “pornography addiction,” sexual conquests, and inappropriate remarks about the cast and crew’s genitalia.
After Lively raised her concerns, the suit alleges a retaliatory “multi-tiered plan” was initiated by Baldoni and his team, which they described as “social manipulation” aimed at destroying her reputation.
Sisterhood and Industry Support
Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel joined the chorus of voices rallying behind Lively, including It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover, who spoke out shortly after the lawsuit made headlines. The Sisterhood actresses condemned the alleged retaliation and exploitation of sensitive topics, such as domestic violence survivor stories, to silence Lively.
“Most upsetting is the unabashed exploitation of domestic violence survivor stories to silence a woman who asked for safety,” the actresses continued. “The hypocrisy is astounding. We are struck by the reality that even if a woman is as strong, celebrated, and resourced as our friend Blake, she can face forceful retaliation for daring to ask for a safe working environment.”
The trio encouraged others to read the full details of Lively’s legal complaint, which was covered extensively by The New York Times.
Baldoni’s Denial
Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, has denied the allegations, calling them baseless. The director has yet to issue a personal public statement addressing the claims.
Lively Speaks Out
Blake Lively issued her own statement to The New York Times, explaining her decision to take legal action. “I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who may be targeted,” she said.
Lively’s lawsuit shines a light on a broader issue within Hollywood and other industries, where retaliation against individuals who report misconduct remains a significant problem.
Moving Forward
The case is ongoing, and its outcome could have significant implications for workplace safety and accountability in the entertainment industry. Lively’s decision to come forward has already prompted widespread discussion about power dynamics, retaliation, and the importance of creating a safe environment for all workers.
As Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel concluded in their statement: “We are inspired by our sister’s courage to stand up for herself and others.” The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants stars’ show of solidarity underscores the strength of their bond and their commitment to supporting their friend during a challenging time.
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