America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel, who shared an iconic bond with Blake Lively over the years through their roles in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, have now stood in full solidarity with her after she took legal action against her director and co-star Justin Baldoni in the lawsuit she filed regarding alleged sexual harassment and the orchestrated efforts to tarnish her reputation. The lawsuit, which Lively filed on a Friday, accuses Baldoni, along with a producer from the movie It Ends With Us, of engaging in a “multi-tiered plan” aimed at discrediting her after she and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, raised concerns about inappropriate behavior on set. The legal action has not only garnered widespread attention for its serious nature but also for the level of support Lively has received from her close friends and co-stars.
In a joint statement shared through Instagram, Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel made it clear that they have stood by Lively for over two decades and will continue to do so, especially in light of the significant challenges she now faces. The trio, who have been part of Lively’s life both on and off the screen, highlighted their feelings of “humbling” support for her. They expressed, "As Blake’s friends and sisters for over twenty years, we stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation." This powerful declaration of solidarity was both a statement of friendship and a commitment to ensuring that Lively’s voice, courage, and actions do not go unrecognized.
Lively’s decision to raise her voice on set for a safer work environment was not easy, and her co-stars reflected on their observations throughout the filming process. They noted that during the production of It Ends With Us, they saw Lively take action to ask for a safe workplace for herself and her colleagues, making sure that her concerns were addressed. In their statement, Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel criticized the “pre-meditated and vindictive” nature of the retaliation Lively allegedly faced. Their words showed a deep sense of anger and frustration with how the situation unfolded and the deliberate efforts made to discredit their dear friend.
The statement also focused on the wider societal issues involved in the case, particularly the hypocrisy of retaliation faced by women in positions of power or prominence who dare to demand safety and respect in the workplace. Despite being as successful and celebrated as Lively is, Ferrera, Tamblyn, and Bledel pointed out that women who take a stand still face retaliation. They wrote, "The hypocrisy is astounding," demonstrating how even the strongest women can be subjected to immense pressure for simply standing up for their rights. Their statement underscored the systemic issues women face when they challenge the status quo, especially in environments where power dynamics and exploitation may exist.
As the trio concluded their statement, they expressed admiration and pride in Lively’s decision to take action. "We are inspired by our sister’s courage to stand up for herself and others," they wrote, recognizing the importance of Lively's bravery in setting a powerful example for others in the industry and beyond. Their words were an important message about the value of standing up for what's right, even when it may come at great personal cost.
In addition to the support from her co-stars, Colleen Hoover, the author of the bestselling novel It Ends With Us and an executive producer of the film adaptation, also made her support known on social media. Hoover took to Instagram, expressing her admiration for Lively, writing, "You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive, and patient since the day we met. Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt." Hoover’s message was a heartfelt tribute to Lively’s character and a show of solidarity in the face of the legal battle.
While Lively’s supporters continue to rally behind her, Bryan Freedman, the attorney representing Justin Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, has vehemently denied the allegations. Freedman described the lawsuit as “shameful” and firmly rejected the claims, labeling the accusations as “entirely false.” His statement dismissing the lawsuit has added fuel to the fire of this ongoing legal dispute.
The filing of this lawsuit and the surrounding events highlight the evolving conversations about workplace harassment and power dynamics in Hollywood. As the legal proceedings unfold, the support Lively is receiving from her long-time friends underscores the importance of solidarity and the strength that comes with community in the face of such serious accusations. The case will likely become a touchstone for larger discussions about the experiences of women in the entertainment industry and the importance of creating safer, more accountable environments for everyone working within it.
