Brandon Sklenar Breaks Silence on Legal Drama Surrounding It Ends with Us Co-Stars
In a recent interview on CBS Mornings, actor Brandon Sklenar opened up for the first time about the legal turmoil involving his It Ends with Us co-stars, Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. Sklenar expressed his dismay over the ongoing controversy, calling it "unfortunate" and urging fans to refocus on the film’s core message. "I just want people to remember why we made the movie in the first place and what it stands for, and just keeping the focus on that," he said. The actor also shared a deeply personal connection to the film, revealing that someone close to him had endured a similar experience of domestic violence, which the movie portrays. "Me doing that film gave her the strength to change her life," Sklenar added, emphasizing how the project was a labor of love for everyone involved. He expressed hope that the film’s message wouldn’t be overshadowed by the legal battles between his co-stars.
When asked by co-host Gayle King if he was "Team Blake or Team Justin," Sklenar diplomatically sidestepped the question, declaring, "I’m Team ‘It Ends with Us.’" His response underscored his commitment to the film’s themes of resilience, healing, and breaking the cycle of abuse. Sklenar’s interview came at a time when the highly anticipated movie, based on Colleen Hoover’s 2016 bestseller, has been overshadowed by allegations of misconduct and defamation. Despite its critical and commercial success—grossing $351 million worldwide—the film’s legacy is now entangled in a legal battle between its lead actors and director.
The Film’s Powerful Message and the Challenges It Has Faced
It Ends with Us tells the story of Lily Bloom (played by Lively), a Boston woman navigating a tumultuous marriage with her husband, Ryle (Baldoni), a doctor prone to violent outbursts. The film also explores her reconnection with Atlas (Sklenar), a kind-hearted figure from her past. The movie was not only a box office hit but also a cultural phenomenon, praised for its raw portrayal of domestic violence and emotional abuse. However, the off-screen drama has overshadowed its achievements. By the time the film was released, rumors of tension between Lively and Baldoni were already circulating. In December, those rumors escalated when Lively filed a lawsuit accusing Baldoni of sexually harassing her on set and orchestrating a smear campaign to damage her reputation.
Baldoni has denied the allegations and fired back with a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times for its coverage of Lively’s claims. He also filed a $400 million countersuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, alleging defamation. The legal battle is set to go to trial next year, further complicating the situation. Sklenar, who currently stars in the Paramount+ series 1923, has been vocal about his support for Lively. He defended her on Instagram in August, criticizing those who accused her of not taking the film’s dark subject matter seriously. "Vilifying the women who put so much of their heart and soul into making this film because they believe so strongly in its message seems counterproductive and detracts from what this film is about," he wrote.
Brandon Sklenar’s Defense of Blake Lively and the Film’s Integrity
Sklenar’s defense of Lively highlights his belief in the film’s mission and his admiration for her dedication to the project. He emphasized that every person involved in the making of It Ends with Us was acutely aware of the responsibility they carried in portraying such sensitive themes. "Trust me when I tell you, there isn’t a single person involved in the making of this film that was not aware of the responsibility we had in making this," he said. His comments serve as a reminder that the film’s intention was to spark meaningful conversations about domestic violence and emotional abuse, rather than to perpetuate drama or controversy.
The Legal Battle’s Impact on the Film’s Legacy
While Sklenar has chosen not to take sides in the legal dispute, his focus on the film’s message reflects a broader sentiment among fans and supporters of It Ends with Us. Many viewers have expressed frustration that the legal drama is overshadowing the film’s emotional depth and its potential to inspire real change. The movie’s success was largely due to its unflinching portrayal of domestic violence and its exploration of the complexities surrounding such relationships. By highlighting the strength and resilience of survivors, It Ends with Us aimed to offer hope and solace to those who have endured similar experiences.
Looking ahead, the legal battle between Lively and Baldoni will undoubtedly continue to draw attention, but Sklenar’s recent comments serve as a poignant reminder of why the film was made in the first place. As he so eloquently put it, It Ends with Us is more than just a movie—it’s a movement. And for those who worked on it, including Sklenar, the film’s impact on survivors of abuse will always be its greatest legacy.
