In a show of solidarity, Hollywood stars America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel have publicly backed Blake Lively following her legal complaint against It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni. The complaint, filed over the weekend, alleges sexual harassment and a concerted effort to damage Lively’s reputation.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Blake Lively’s legal team asserts that the complaint stems from an earlier meeting aimed at addressing what they described as “repeated sexual harassment and other disturbing behavior” by Baldoni, who is not only her co-star but also a producer on the film. In response to the allegations, Baldoni’s legal representatives declared them “categorically false.”
A United Front from Fellow Actors
Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel, who starred alongside Lively in the 2005 film The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, expressed their support in a joint statement on Instagram. They wrote, “As Blake’s friends and sisters for over 20 years, we stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation.”
The trio emphasized that throughout the filming of It Ends With Us, they witnessed Lively courageously advocate for a safe working environment for herself and her colleagues. They expressed their outrage at what they described as a “premeditated and vindictive effort” to undermine her voice.
Colleen Hoover Shows Support
Colleen Hoover, the author of It Ends With Us, also lent her support to Lively. She described the actress as “honest, kind, supportive, and patient,” highlighting Lively’s character and dedication to the project.
The Impact of the Allegations
Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel’s statement highlighted the troubling exploitation of domestic violence survivors’ stories to silence women who seek safety in the workplace. They remarked, “The hypocrisy is astounding.” The statement pointed out the harsh reality that even strong and celebrated women like Lively can face significant backlash for advocating for their rights.
“We are inspired by our sister’s courage to stand up for herself and others,” they concluded, reinforcing their unwavering support for Lively.”
Conclusion
As the legal situation unfolds, the backing of fellow Hollywood stars serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity. The allegations against Baldoni and Lively’s bravery in addressing them shine a light on ongoing issues of workplace safety and the treatment of women in the film industry. The public support from friends and colleagues underscores the collective stance against harassment and the importance of creating a safe environment for all artists.