Jenny Slate, a prominent figure in Hollywood, has come forward to strongly support her It Ends With Us co-star Blake Lively, following Lively’s allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation against the film’s director and co-star, Justin Baldoni.
“As Blake Lively’s castmate and friend, I voice my support as she takes action against those reported to have planned and carried out an attack on her reputation,” Slate said in a statement to Today.com on Monday. “Blake is a leader, loyal friend, and a trusted source of emotional support for me and so many who know and love her.”
Slate further expressed her dismay over the situation, stating, “What has been revealed about the attack on Blake is terribly dark, disturbing, and wholly threatening. I commend my friend, I admire her bravery, and I stand by her side.”
In the upcoming film, Slate portrays Allysa, the sister of Baldoni’s character and Lively’s sister-in-law, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding events.
Slate joins a growing list of Hollywood allies, including A-listers, It Ends With Us studio Sony, and SAG-AFTRA, who have publicly backed Lively. The controversy has sent shockwaves through the industry, with many expressing their solidarity with Lively and denouncing the alleged behavior of Baldoni and his associates.
Late last week, Lively filed a graphic complaint with California’s Civil Rights Department. The document, which included detailed text messages, was filed against Baldoni, his company Wayfarer Studios, co-founder James Heath, and others. While the complaint stops short of being a formal lawsuit, it is widely seen as a precursor to legal action in court.
The allegations include sexual harassment, retaliation, and an orchestrated social media campaign to tarnish Lively’s reputation. The fallout has been swift: Baldoni was abruptly dropped by his agency, WME, on December 21. WME also represents Lively’s husband, actor Ryan Reynolds.
Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, has denied the allegations, asserting his client’s innocence. However, the backlash against Baldoni continues to escalate. The Vital Voices Global Partnership, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women leaders, rescinded an award previously given to Baldoni. Additionally, Liz Plank, co-host of Baldoni’s Man Enough podcast, announced her departure from the show on Monday in light of the serious allegations.
The unfolding events surrounding It Ends With Us underscore the growing industry-wide efforts to hold individuals accountable and create safer, more respectful work environments. As the situation develops, many in Hollywood and beyond are rallying behind Lively, applauding her courage in speaking out.
