“Never Change, Never Wilt”: Colleen Hoover Stands by Blake Lively Amid Harassment Lawsuit
Colleen Hoover, author of the bestselling novel It Ends With Us, has voiced her unwavering support for actress Blake Lively amidst the latter’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, her co-star and director in the upcoming film adaptation. Baldoni, recently dropped by his agency WME, faces allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct, as well as claims of launching a smear campaign against Lively.
In an Instagram Story, Hoover shared a heartfelt message alongside a photo of herself and Lively embracing. “You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive, and patient since the day we met,” Hoover wrote. “Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt.”
Lively’s Complaint
Lively’s 80-page complaint, filed with the California Civil Rights Department, details multiple instances of alleged harassment during the film’s production. The document accuses Baldoni of engaging in improvised physical intimacy without prior discussion or choreography, including unplanned kissing and inappropriate remarks.
The allegations extend to Baldoni pressuring Lively to simulate nudity during a birth scene, hiring a close friend to play a doctor in a context Lively found invasive, and commenting on her body and appearance. Further claims include Baldoni sharing unwanted personal details about his sex life, arranging for a weight-loss specialist without Lively’s consent, and invading her privacy while she was breastfeeding.
“Mr. Baldoni, Mr. Heath, and Wayfarer Studios failed their obligations to investigate complaints of workplace harassment, to prevent inappropriate behaviors on set, and to provide safe avenues for raising concerns,” the complaint states.
Family and Industry Support
Blake Lively’s sister, actress Robyn Lively, also expressed solidarity. Posting a collage summarizing the allegations, Robyn captioned, “FINALLY justice for my sister @BlakeLively.”
The lawsuit reveals that a meeting involving Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, Baldoni, and other executives resulted in a set of 30 agreed-upon terms to establish professional boundaries. Provisions included the presence of an intimacy coordinator and commitments by Baldoni to avoid comments about his sex life or Lively’s appearance.
Justin Baldoni’s Career Fallout
In the wake of the allegations, Baldoni was dropped by WME, his representation agency. His production company, Wayfarer Studios, has yet to respond publicly.
Colleen Hoover’s Public Show of Support
Hoover’s support highlights the close bond she shares with Lively, who plays the protagonist Lily Bloom in the film adaptation of It Ends With Us. Their friendship has been evident throughout the film’s promotion, including appearances at events such as Book Bonanza.
While Baldoni has not publicly addressed the allegations, Hoover’s message amplifies the growing support for Lively as she navigates this challenging time.
As the lawsuit unfolds, the allegations raise broader questions about workplace safety and accountability within the entertainment industry. Fans and advocates alike await further developments, standing by Blake Lively as she seeks justice.
