Blake Lively's brother-in-law Bart Johnson comes to her defense amid the wave of controversy she's faced over her film It ends with us.
THE High school musical actor, who is married to Blake's older sister Robyn Lively, responded to a comment on her recent Instagram post, in which she shared a birthday tribute to Blake. “Shame she's so intent on promoting happiness in a domestic violence setting with no regard for the victims. Disappointing of Blake,” one person commented.
Johnson wrote in response, which appears to have since been deleted, “I'm truly sorry you feel that way. I'm sure you have a huge heart and want the best. I can promise you the truth hasn't come out yet. Blake worked harder on this film than anything I've ever seen her do in my entire life. Because it meant so much to her.”
“The message is in the book. And the movie. Not in short clips/interviews,” he continued. “She is the reason the message/this movie/is coming out. Were there any mistakes made? Yes. I make mistakes in life. But I'm not under a microscope. However, I respect your opinions. I have nothing but love for you.”
Blake not only played Lily Bloom in the 2016 film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's book, but also served as a producer. However, since the film's release on August 9, the actress has faced criticism on social media for seemingly not being forthcoming enough about the story's sensitive themes, such as domestic violence and toxic relationships.
While the actress has been sharing resources to help domestic violence survivors on her social media following the release of It ends with ussome fans argue that she hasn't done enough to raise awareness. Blake has also faced backlash for cross-promoting her new hair care brand Blake Brown during the film's press run.
The Hollywood Reporter also previously reported an alleged rift between Blake and Justin Baldoni, the film's director who also played Ryle. Sources said DAY that tension dates back at least a year, with the actress eager to return to filming after production was suspended due to the actors' strike in 2023. Baldoni has also been accused of creating an uncomfortable set that alienated Blake and the cast.
According to some sources, there would also be tensions in the post-production phase, where two competing cuts of the film emerged, including one commissioned by Blake (which is the cut currently being shown in theaters).
In another part of the Instagram post, Johnson shared several photos of them together over the years and wrote in the caption: “For 30 years I have had the privilege of being friends [sic] with this strong, kind, loving, committed, hard-working and inspiring woman [sic]!! Someone who wants to make the world a better place and has been an amazing role model in a million ways of caring, spreading kindness and my absolute favorite, putting her family first and being an AMAZING wife and mother. When I grow up I want to be just like her. I have a long way to go. I LOVE YOU BLAKE!!!”