Blake Lively’s most recent big-screen outing comes in the form of It Ends With Us, which was released in theaters this weekend. The film is based on author Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel of the same name. It is directed by Justin Baldoni, who also plays a pivotal role alongside Lively and Brandon Sklenar.
During an interview, Baldoni was asked about potentially returning to direct a sequel of the romantic-drama film. However, the actor’s comments strongly hint that he might not be inclined to work with Lively again in the future. As a result, the rumors of a reported rift between the co-stars have further intensified because of Baldoni’s comments.
Justin Baldoni Talked About Returning For a Potential It Ends With Us Sequel
Justin Baldoni directed It Ends With Us, starring Blake Lively who plays the role of Lily Bloom, based on the lead character of Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel. The film received mixed reviews from critics but opened strong at the box office.
Baldoni sat down to promote the film in a conversation with Variety, where he discussed adapting the novel. At the same time, Baldoni was asked about potentially returning to direct a sequel, which would be based on Hoover’s follow-up novel It Starts with Us.
I think there are better people for that one. I think Blake Lively’s ready to direct. That’s what I think.
Baldoni made the above statement, turning down the idea of possibly directing a follow-up installment.
The actor’s comments suggest that Baldoni does not want to work with Lively in the future. While his statement suggests that Baldoni is singing his co-star’s praise, recent rumors strongly suggest that Baldoni and Lively aren’t on the best of terms with each other.
Justin Baldoni and It Ends With Us Co-star Blake Lively Are Allegedly Feuding
Baldoni’s statement about suggesting Lively for the director’s chair might seem like a dig at the actress as a source claimed that the latter had asked for a different cut of the movie for a personal screening before its release.
Furthermore, rumors of a rift between the two stars further intensified when Lively and Baldoni weren’t photographed together during the premiere of the romantic-drama movie. Similarly, the duo also did not appear together during the press tour. Hence, fans have suspected that the two aren’t on cordial terms.
All parties agreed on the final cut of the film and agreed that it’s the best version of the film.
A source close to the production made the above statement to US Weekly, suggesting that Baldoni and Lively aren’t feuding because of creative disagreements between the two actors.
However, Lively revealed in an interview that her husband, Ryan Reynolds, was involved in the writing of a steamy scene between her and Baldoni’s characters. The film’s cast and the source material’s author reportedly do not follow Baldoni on Instagram. As a result, fans have speculated both points as potential hints of a rift between the two.
It Ends With Us is playing in theaters near you.
