Blake Lively’s brother-in-law, Bart Johnson, has spoken out in support of the actress following criticism of her film It Ends With Us.
Johnson, who is married to Blake’s older sister Robyn Lively, addressed the controversy in the comments of his recent Instagram post, where he celebrated her birthday.
In the social media tribute, the High School Musical actor shared several photos of them together over the years and wrote in the caption, “For 30 years I’ve had the privilege of being fiends [sic] with this kind, loving, committed, hard working and inspiring strong women (sic)!!
“Someone that wants to make the world a better place and has been such an exceptional role model in a million kinda ways to care for others, spread kindness and my personal favorite, putting her family first and being an AMAZING wife and mother.
“When I grow up I wanna be just like her. I’ve got a long ways to go. LOVE YOU BLAKE!!!”
However, one Instagram user took shared their frustrations with Lively’s recent turn in It Ends With Us and wrote under the post: “Shame she’s so set on promoting happiness in a domestic violence setting without any regard for any victims. Disappointing from Blake.”
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Johnson wrote in a comment, which appears to have since been deleted: “I’m really sorry you feel that way. I’m sure you have a huge heart and want the best.
“I can promise you the truth has not come out yet. Blake worked harder on this film than anything I’ve seen her do my entire life. Because it meant so much to her.
“The message is in the book. And in the movie. Not in short clips / interviews,” he continued. “She is the reason the message / this movie/ is getting out.
“Were mistakes made? Yes. I make mistakes in life. But they aren’t under a microscope. Anyway, I respect your views. I got nothing but love for you.”
Lively, who not only starred as Lily Bloom but also produced the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s 2016 novel, has faced considerable backlash since its release on August 9.
Critics have accused her of not adequately addressing the film's themes of domestic abuse and toxic relationships.
Despite sharing resources for domestic violence survivors on social media, some fans believe she has fallen short in raising awareness.
Additionally, Lively has faced criticism for promoting her new haircare brand, Blake Brown, during the film's promotional period, which some see as overshadowing the film’s sensitive subject matter.
Reports also surfaced regarding the alleged fractured relationship between Lively and Baldoni began around the film’s release at the beginning of August.
Baldoni, who played Ryle, has been accused of creating a difficult working environment, which THR claimed affected Lively and other cast members.
This tension extended into post-production, where two different versions of the film were edited—one of which was championed by Lively and is currently showing in cinemas.
