Piers Morgan has expressed outrage over the controversial reaction of the “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) audience during a “Weekend Update” segment that mentioned Luigi Mangione, the prime suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

During the segment, host Colin Jost referenced Mangione—who has gained infamy since his arrest—and was met with unexpected cheers from the audience. The reaction left Jost visibly uncomfortable as he attempted to continue his monologue, sarcastically quipping: “You’re wooing for justice, right?”

Morgan took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize the moment, writing: “So disgusting… and Colin Jost just smirks away as if it’s all one big giggle. Shameful moment for SNL.”

Morgan wasn’t the only one to voice disapproval. Author and business executive Jennifer Sey also condemned the audience’s reaction, describing it as a “disturbing reflection of society’s misplaced values.” On X, Sey wrote: “The SNL audience must be the dumbest group of pathetic woke conformists known to man. Here they cheer for a silver spoon/trust funder murdering a stranger with some deranged Robin Hood ‘I’m a hero’ story. Audience is moronic. And evil.”

Criticism also came from right-wing commentators. Stephen Miller, a former advisor to President Donald Trump, labeled the moment “revolting, sickening, and vile” in a subtweeted post accompanied by the clip.

Mangione’s Growing Infamy

The mention of Luigi Mangione on “SNL” highlights the ongoing fascination with his case. Mangione, who attended an Ivy League university, has attracted widespread attention due to his anti-healthcare-industry manifesto and privileged background. Since his arrest, he has become a polarizing figure, with some even romanticizing his actions.

This marks the second time Mangione has been featured on “SNL” in recent weeks. Last week, cast member Sarah Sherman joked, “Y’all psychos find him a sex symbol… He has women and gay guys hot and bothered.”

Mangione’s case continues to spark debates about media sensationalism and societal values. He is scheduled to appear in court in New York tomorrow and remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center.

Amazon Prime Video’s The Boys has defied the odds with its relentless pace, delivering four explosive seasons since its debut. With a fifth season on the horizon, the show has managed to sustain its momentum and cultural relevance, even as the superhero genre faces challenges post-Endgame in the MCU and amidst the ongoing DCU rebuild by James Gunn. While spin-offs like Diabolical and Gen V have expanded the universe, The Boys remains the crown jewel of this gritty franchise. Let’s dive into what’s in store for Season 5.

Plot Developments

Season 4’s finale left fans on edge as Sister Sage’s machinations succeeded, catapulting Homelander into an unprecedented position of power. With martial law declared, Homelander now rules the United States unopposed, using Supes to round up dissenters and imprison them in detention camps. Key characters are in dire straits: Hughie, MM, Kimiko, and Frenchie are imprisoned, Butcher is on the run, and Starlight has disappeared into the unknown.

Showrunner Eric Kripke promises a more perilous narrative ahead, shedding the “plot armor” that previously safeguarded major characters. According to Kripke, Season 5 will “blow the doors off” as Homelander’s reign begins to unravel. Despite achieving his ultimate desires, Homelander’s human vulnerabilities—aging, insecurity, and his deep-seated need for love—will increasingly drive him toward madness. Antony Starr’s portrayal continues to delve into the complexities of a man who despises his own humanity.

Meanwhile, Butcher is set to embrace his monstrous side fully, while Hughie embarks on a journey to rediscover his humanity. Jack Quaid has hinted that Hughie’s redemption arc will include significant action, teasing brighter moments after his character’s grueling struggles.

Fans can also expect unexpected twists. Ashley’s transformation in the Season 4 finale opens the door for potential revenge against Homelander. Additionally, MM’s vendetta against Homelander and his struggle with Love Sausage will remain pivotal.

Returning Cast

The ensemble cast remains a cornerstone of The Boys. Returning stars include Antony Starr (Homelander), Chace Crawford (The Deep), Erin Moriarty (Starlight), Jack Quaid (Hughie), Karen Fukuhara (Kimiko), Laz Alonso (Mother’s Milk), Tomer Capone (Frenchie), and Karl Urban (Butcher). Jessie T. Usher’s A-Train also reemerges, dispelling fears of his departure after Season 4.

Season 5 will feature more of Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy, whose complex relationship with Homelander promises further drama. Ryan (Cameron Corvette) may seek reconciliation with his father, adding another layer to the conflict. Gen V’s Maddie Phillips (Cate) and Asa Germann (Sam) could also make appearances, enriching the interconnected universe.

New additions include Daveed Diggs in a mysterious role, fueling speculation about his impact on the plot. Furthermore, hints of potential appearances by Jared Padalecki and Jeffrey Dean Morgan suggest more connections to Kripke’s Supernatural legacy.

Release and Future Spin-offs

Fans will have to exercise patience, as Season 5 of The Boys is set for a 2026 release. In the interim, Gen V will return in 2025, followed by Vought Rising in 2027. While Eric Kripke has downplayed the likelihood of The Boys: Mexico, the expansive universe remains ripe for exploration.

Trailer and Teasers

No trailer for Season 5 has been released yet, but iconic moments like Homelander’s infamous airplane scene continue to capture the series’ essence. As anticipation builds, fans are left speculating about the chaos to come.

With its fearless storytelling and unpredictable twists, The Boys Season 5 promises to be a wild ride. Stay tuned for more updates as the world of Supes and vigilantes hurtles toward its most dramatic chapter yet.

Every week, our team of TV and film enthusiasts dives into the vast ocean of streaming content to curate a list of the top 10 shows and movies you won’t want to miss. From hidden gems to buzzworthy blockbusters, these recommendations ensure your streaming queue stays fresh and entertaining.

10. Black Doves – Netflix
This six-episode Netflix original has captivated audiences with its perfect blend of spy intrigue and heartfelt friendships. Starring Keira Knightley as a reluctant spy and Ben Whishaw as her trusty companion, the series offers thrilling action with a touch of humor. Fans can rejoice—Season 2 is already on its way!

9. Joker: Folie à Deux – Max
The much-discussed sequel to Joker has finally made its way to streaming. Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, this musical twist on the dark tale dives deep into Arthur Fleck’s chaotic world. Whether you loved or loathed it in theaters, it’s worth a watch from the comfort of home.

8. Star Wars: Skeleton Crew – Disney+
Star Wars continues to expand its universe with this fresh, adventure-packed series. Featuring Jude Law as a mysterious pirate and a group of lost kids navigating a galaxy far, far away, this show has been described as “Stranger Things meets Star Wars.” A must-watch for fans of both franchises.

7. Juror #2 – Max
Clint Eastwood’s latest directorial effort is now streaming on Max. Nicholas Hoult stars as a juror grappling with a dangerous secret. This intense legal thriller features an ensemble cast, including Toni Collette, Zoey Deutch, and J.K. Simmons, delivering gripping performances.

6. Landman – Paramount+
Taylor Sheridan’s latest creation is a hit with fans, blending drama, humor, and a stellar cast. Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Hamm, and Demi Moore lead this ensemble series about oil tycoons and family dynamics. It’s already making waves as one of Paramount+’s standout shows.

5. Subservience – Netflix
Megan Fox stars in this sci-fi thriller about a household android gone rogue. When jealousy turns deadly, chaos ensues. This suspenseful film has viewers on the edge of their seats and sets the stage for a potential sequel.

4. Secret Level – Prime Video
Gaming enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Created by the team behind LOVE, DEATH + ROBOTS, this animated anthology celebrates gaming culture with episodes inspired by iconic titles like Dungeons & Dragons and PAC-MAN. Featuring voices like Keanu Reeves and Arnold Schwarzenegger, it’s a binge-worthy delight.

3. Red One – Prime Video
Get into the holiday spirit with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Chris Evans in this festive action-comedy. When Christmas is in jeopardy, these A-listers team up to save the season in a heartwarming and hilarious adventure.

2. Carry-On – Netflix
Taron Egerton stars as a TSA agent caught in a high-stakes game of survival on Christmas Eve. With Jason Bateman and Theo Rossi delivering standout performances, this thrilling airport drama is perfect for the holiday season.

1. Dexter: Original Sin – Showtime on Paramount+
Revisit the origins of Dexter Morgan in this prequel series set in the 1990s. Patrick Gibson takes on the role of young Dexter, with Michael C. Hall narrating his iconic inner monologue. Featuring Christian Slater and Sarah Michelle Gellar, this series promises to satisfy longtime fans while welcoming new ones.

Kendrick Lamar’s deep connection to his hometown of Compton, California, continues to shine through his work, including his latest album, GNX. The chart-topping project celebrates his roots and love for the city that shaped him. However, despite his dedication, Kendrick’s contributions have not shielded him from local negativity.

A mural honoring the “Squabble Up” rapper has been defaced once again, according to XXL. The artwork, located on Rosecrans Avenue behind the Honduran restaurant Mi Sabor, has been targeted multiple times. This follows a similar incident in September when the mural was vandalized with gang-related graffiti.

The most recent act of vandalism remains unidentified, but it has sparked frustration from the mural’s creator, artist Sloe Motions. Taking to the comments section of XXL’s coverage, he expressed his dismay: “I was one of the artists who painted the mural, and the guy who blacked out Kendrick’s face literally just made it worse.”

This isn’t the first time Sloe Motions has publicly shared his disappointment. Following the initial vandalism, Kendrick Lamar released the song “Wacced Out Murals,” addressing the incident. At the time, Sloe Motions shared his mixed emotions: “A couple of months ago, our Kendrick mural got hit. Of course, we were pissed and wanted to fix it, but it just kept getting worse. Flash forward to today, and Kendrick drops a song about the situation. It doesn’t necessarily make it okay, but it does feel good to have our hard work for the community immortalized in a song by one of the greatest to ever do it. Thank you, Kendrick Lamar, for making this situation a little better today.”

Kendrick Lamar has yet to comment on the mural’s latest defacement. While the repeated vandalism underscores the challenges of creating public art in urban areas, the mural remains a symbol of pride and resilience for Compton and its community.

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s reunion initially sparked hope among fans for a fairy-tale ending, but after two years of marriage, the “This Is Me…Now” singer has reportedly filed for divorce. Despite the end of their relationship, Lopez seems to have no regrets about their decision to part ways.

In a recent interview with British Vogue while promoting her role in the film Unstoppable (produced by Affleck’s company, Artists Equity), Lopez indirectly touched on her split. During her conversation with Judy Robles, the woman she portrays in the film, Lopez reflected on Robles’ own turbulent divorce. Lopez shared her perspective on navigating the emotional aftermath of a relationship ending, emphasizing the importance of releasing societal shame and regret.

“You kind of go, ‘That’s who I was at that time,’” Lopez said. “There were things that I needed—there was a part of my soul that needed to grow. And it grew in its perfect timing, in its perfect way, when I was ready. That’s part of the journey of life and healing those parts of ourselves that we don’t always understand.”

Although Lopez did not mention Affleck by name, many fans and online users speculated that her comments were inspired by their separation. Reports suggest that their marriage faced challenges during the production of Unstoppable, further fueling public curiosity about the state of their relationship.

Lopez’s remarks reflect her broader approach to overcoming hardships. Earlier in the interview, she shared her mindset on resilience: “I think the way I overcome things is not by thinking of them as happening to me but happening for me. What is the lesson that needs to be learned in the moment? When I think of things that way and stay in a more positive mindset, it’s easier to embrace the lesson for what it is.”

This perspective is one Lopez has leaned on through her past divorces, including her high-profile splits from Marc Anthony, Cris Judd, and Ojani Noa. Her ability to find personal growth and healing in challenging experiences continues to resonate with fans and serves as an example of resilience and self-awareness.

Justin Timberlake is owning up to his recent onstage mishap, but fans of the “Drown” singer have humorously taken to charging him with “indecent exposure” following an unexpected wardrobe malfunction.

On December 12, during a performance at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, Timberlake inadvertently gave attendees of his “Forget Tomorrow World Tour” an unexpected view when his outfit left little to the imagination. The viral moment quickly made waves online, leaving fans and critics buzzing. Fast forward to his December 20 tour stop in Kansas City, Missouri, and Timberlake subtly addressed the incident by making a key adjustment to his stage attire.

In a now widely shared clip, Timberlake is seen performing above the T-Mobile Center crowd while strapped into a harness. Notably, he swapped his usual basic tee for a custom-designed, longer tunic. The wardrobe tweak did not go unnoticed by fans, who shared their reactions online. While some applauded Timberlake’s quick pivot, others viewed the moment as a form of cosmic payback for the infamous Super Bowl Halftime Show incident with Janet Jackson.

“Y’all hurt that man’s feelings. And I’m here for it,” one user wrote.

“Y’all… the way he insecurely tugged on his new long tunic 😩,” another commented.

“The damage has been done, sir,” added a third.

“I absolutely love this for him, and Britney, and Janet…” a fan chimed in.

With Timberlake’s tour extending well into 2025, he still has plenty of opportunities to fine-tune his performance wardrobe and avoid any future viral fashion faux pas. The Kansas City performance serves as a reminder that even megastars like Timberlake can have their share of slip-ups—and learn from them in the spotlight.

In a surprising twist in the hip-hop world, legendary rapper André 3000 has expressed gratitude to Drake for leaking his verse on Kanye West’s track “Life Of The Party.” The song, originally intended for Kanye’s Donda album, became a point of conversation during André 3000’s recent appearance on The New York Times’ Popcast podcast.

On December 21, André joined hosts Jon Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli to talk about his music and creative process. During the discussion, the rapper reflected on the unexpected release of his verse on Drake’s OVO Sound Radio, which occurred amidst the high-profile feud between Kanye West and Drake.

“I should probably thank Drake for that,” André admitted. “Even though the release wasn’t ideal, I’m glad fans got to hear it. At the time, Kanye and I couldn’t agree on how the song should come out.”

Creative Differences with Kanye West

André explained that his verse was nearly scrapped due to creative differences with Kanye. “Kanye was at a stage where he didn’t want any curse words on the album,” André said. “I was fine with that, but I told him, ‘If that’s the case, just take me off the song.’”

This creative impasse left the track’s release uncertain. “I don’t know if Drake knew it wasn’t going to be released and decided to share it anyway,” André continued. “But I’m kind of thankful he did, even if it came out during their beef.”

A Silver Lining in a Controversial Leak

Although the song’s release was part of a broader feud between Drake and Kanye, André focused on the positives. “The history of it is wild, but at least the fans got to hear it,” he said. “That’s what matters most to me.”

Drake’s decision to leak the track not only highlighted the tensions between the two music icons but also gave André 3000’s verse a chance to shine. Despite the drama, the OutKast rapper remains grateful that the song saw the light of day.

Final Thoughts

For André 3000 fans, the leak of “Life Of The Party” serves as a rare opportunity to hear the rapper’s artistry in its raw form. While the circumstances weren’t ideal, André’s words reflect an appreciation for the fans who continue to celebrate his work, even in unexpected ways.

Stay tuned to Project Casting for more updates on the latest in entertainment and music news!

Kim Kardashian has surprised fans by making her return to music with a holiday twist. Over a decade after releasing her debut single, “Jam (Turn It Up),” Kardashian is back with a fresh rendition of the Christmas classic “Santa Baby.” The track, produced by Travis Barker, dropped today, December 23, along with a lo-fi, visually playful music video.

The video captures Kardashian in a glamorous holiday setting, crawling across the floor as a chaotic Christmas party buzzes around her. True to the festive spirit, the video includes a brief but delightful cameo from Macaulay Culkin, widely regarded as a Christmas icon thanks to his role in the beloved “Home Alone” films.

This marks Kardashian’s first foray into music since her 2011 single. Reflecting on her debut, Kardashian admitted in 2014 that it was a fun experience but expressed some regret about trying her hand at singing. “If there’s one thing in life that I wish I didn’t do… it’s that,” she said, adding, “What gave me the right to think I could be a singer? Like, I don’t have a good voice.” Despite her reservations, her new holiday release suggests she’s open to revisiting music—at least for the festive season.

While music hasn’t been her primary focus in recent years, Kardashian’s Skims shapewear brand has been thriving. The company has enlisted several major stars, including Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, and Lana Del Rey, for its campaigns, cementing its status as a cultural powerhouse.

Whether this holiday single marks the beginning of a renewed interest in music for Kardashian or simply a festive one-off, it’s clear she knows how to keep fans talking.

Justin Baldoni, the director and star of It Ends With Us, has been dropped by his agency, WME, following sexual harassment and retaliation allegations filed by actress Blake Lively. The decision to sever ties with Baldoni was made on Saturday, less than 24 hours after Lively submitted her complaint, according to sources.

WME, which also represents Lively, declined to comment on the matter. However, insiders indicate that the agency acted swiftly due to the gravity of the allegations outlined in the complaint filed with the California Civil Rights Department.

Allegations Detailed in Lively’s Complaint

In the complaint, Lively accuses Baldoni of causing “severe emotional harm” to her and her family. She alleges incidents of sexual harassment, inappropriate behavior, and a retaliatory smear campaign orchestrated by Baldoni after her objections to certain production decisions on It Ends With Us. Among the accusations:

• Body Shaming and Inappropriate Comments: Lively claims Baldoni criticized her weight in discussions with her trainer and made inappropriate comments about his sex life during a January 2024 meeting.
• Pressuring Disclosure of Personal Beliefs: Lively alleges Baldoni pressured her to discuss her religious beliefs during the same meeting, which was attended by her husband, Ryan Reynolds.
• Unethical Behavior on Set: Lively asserts that Jamey Heath, producer of the film and CEO of Wayfarer Studios, showed her a personal video of his wife giving birth. Both Heath and Baldoni allegedly discussed their struggles with pornography addiction in her presence.
• Invasive Actions: Baldoni is accused of entering Lively’s makeup trailer unannounced while she was breastfeeding her newborn baby.
• Campaign of Retaliation: The complaint claims Baldoni launched a “social manipulation” campaign to damage Lively’s reputation after she demanded no additional sex scenes be added to the film’s script, which had already been approved by Sony Pictures.

The complaint includes emails and text messages purportedly showing plans by Baldoni’s publicity team to discredit Lively if her complaints became public.

Responses from Both Sides

Bryan Freedman, Baldoni’s lawyer, has strongly denied the allegations, calling them “shameful” and “categorically false.” In a statement to Variety, Freedman accused Lively and her representatives of fabricating claims in an effort to “repair her own negative reputation” stemming from actions during the film’s promotional campaign. He added that Wayfarer Studios had preemptively hired a crisis management professional due to what he described as Lively’s “multiple demands and threats” during production.

Lively’s legal team, in a statement provided to The New York Times, emphasized the broader implications of the complaint. “I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who may be targeted,” Lively said.

Industry Reaction

The allegations have sparked widespread discussion within the entertainment industry about workplace misconduct and accountability. While WME’s decision to drop Baldoni underscores the seriousness of the claims, the fallout for both parties is likely to unfold in the public eye as the case progresses.

Representatives for Sony Pictures and Wayfarer Studios have not yet commented on the allegations. Meanwhile, the legal battle and its potential impact on the careers of both Baldoni and Lively remain uncertain.

Blake Lively has filed a formal complaint accusing her It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment and misconduct on set. According to a report first obtained by Variety, the actress alleges that Baldoni and other representatives of Wayfarer Studios created a hostile work environment that caused her and her family “severe emotional harm.”

In response, Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, dismissed the claims as “categorically false,” calling the complaint a “shameful attempt” to tarnish Baldoni’s reputation.

Allegations of Misconduct

The complaint, filed with the California Civil Rights Department, details a series of alleged incidents. Lively claims Baldoni made inappropriate comments about her weight to her trainer, asked intrusive questions about her religious beliefs, and made unprofessional remarks about his sex life. Additionally, she alleges that producer Jamey Heath, CEO of Wayfarer Studios, shared a personal video of his wife naked during childbirth.

Lively further claims both Baldoni and Heath entered her makeup trailer without permission, including when she was breastfeeding her child. The actress states she raised these concerns not only for herself but also for other female cast and crew members who had voiced similar experiences.

Dispute Over On-Set Demands

Lively reportedly requested that no additional sex scenes be added to the film’s script without her prior approval. While Sony Pictures allegedly agreed to these terms, Lively accuses Baldoni of launching a retaliatory campaign to damage her reputation.

Text messages and emails included in the complaint suggest Baldoni and his team orchestrated a “digital army” to shape public perception in his favor. The strategy involved subcontractors promoting content on social media and forums to discredit Lively and intimidate others from speaking out.

Wayfarer Studios Responds

Freedman’s statement claims Lively’s accusations stem from her own behavior during production. He alleges that Lively made repeated threats to withdraw from the film and its promotion, leading Wayfarer Studios to hire a crisis management team.

“These claims are completely false and outrageous,” Freedman stated. He added that Wayfarer Studios took no proactive measures against Lively but instead responded to media inquiries to ensure accurate reporting. Freedman accused Lively of planting fabricated stories in the media through her PR representatives.

On-Set Tensions and Fallout

Rumors of tension between Lively and Baldoni surfaced during the film’s press tour, as the two avoided joint appearances. Despite the controversy, It Ends With Us, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, became a box office success, grossing $350 million globally. However, industry sources suggest a sequel adaptation, It Starts With Us, is unlikely due to the fractured relationship between the leads.

Lively’s Statement

A spokesperson for Lively shared her hope that the legal action would expose retaliatory tactics and protect others in similar situations. “This is about pulling back the curtain on the sinister ways individuals in power try to silence those who speak out,” Lively said in a statement to The New York Times.

Next Steps

As the legal battle unfolds, both parties remain steadfast in their claims. While Baldoni’s team continues to deny any wrongdoing, Lively’s complaint alleges a coordinated effort to undermine her credibility and suppress allegations of misconduct.

This high-profile case adds another layer to ongoing discussions about accountability and safety in the entertainment industry.

Blake Lively has claimed that her missed opportunity to host the milestone 50th season opener of Saturday Night Live was the result of a damaging smear campaign led by her It Ends with Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni.

According to a bombshell complaint filed with the California Civil Rights Department, Lively detailed how her professional life took a major hit after alleged incidents of harassment on the set of the upcoming film.

Missed Career Opportunities Amid Allegations

“The effects on Ms. Lively’s professional life were immediate and substantial,” the filing stated. Among the losses, Lively named her scheduled hosting gig for the SNL Season 50 premiere as a key casualty.

The complaint revealed that Lively canceled the coveted SNL role due to the ongoing fallout from Baldoni’s alleged actions. “Given the ongoing nature of the campaign and the associated negative public sentiment, Ms. Lively did not believe she could proceed with public appearances or events without being forced to openly discuss what happened on set,” it read.

In addition to SNL, Lively also pulled out of a high-profile Target corporate event tied to her hair care brand.

Allegations Against Justin Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios

Lively’s filing detailed a contentious January 2024 meeting where Baldoni allegedly made inappropriate remarks about her weight, discussed his personal life in explicit terms, and forced her to disclose her religious beliefs.

In a shocking addition, Jamey Heath, producer of It Ends with Us and CEO of Baldoni’s Wayfarer Studios, reportedly showed Lively a video of his wife giving birth—an incident included in the complaint as evidence of unprofessional behavior on set.

Screenshots of texts and emails between Lively, Baldoni, and his team were also submitted as evidence. These messages allegedly outlined a coordinated plan to tarnish Lively’s reputation should any behind-the-scenes issues from It Ends with Us become public.

The Fallout

Lively’s absence from SNL’s landmark 50th season premiere marks a significant moment for the Hollywood star, who has maintained a reputation as a celebrated actor and public figure. While Lively has yet to comment publicly on the details of the case, her filing underscores the serious challenges she has faced in the wake of these allegations.

As the entertainment industry closely follows this developing story, the impact on both It Ends with Us and the professional relationships of its key players remains to be seen.

Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing story and other entertainment news at Project Casting.

The cast of the beloved Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants has reunited in spirit to support their longtime co-star and friend, Blake Lively. America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel released a powerful joint statement on social media, standing in solidarity with Lively following her allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation against It Ends With Us director Justin Baldoni.

The statement highlights their unwavering support for Lively, with whom they’ve shared a deep bond for over two decades.

“As Blake’s friends and sisters for over 20 years, we stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation,” the statement begins. “Throughout the filming of It Ends With Us, we saw her summon the courage to ask for a safe workplace for herself and colleagues on set, and we are appalled to read the evidence of a premeditated and vindictive effort that ensued to discredit her voice. Most upsetting is the unabashed exploitation of domestic violence survivors’ stories to silence a woman who asked for safety. The hypocrisy is astounding.”

The co-stars also expressed their concern about the broader implications of Lively’s allegations:

“We are struck by the reality that even if a woman is as strong, celebrated, and resourced as our friend Blake, she can face forceful retaliation for daring to ask for a safe working environment,” the statement continues. “We are inspired by our sister’s courage to stand up for herself and others.”

They encouraged the public to dive deeper into the issue by reading the full legal complaint and investigative reporting from The New York Times.

Justin Baldoni Responds

Justin Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, have denied the allegations. Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, called Lively’s complaint “shameful” and described the accusations as “categorically false.”

Colleen Hoover Voices Support

Blake Lively has also received public support from It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover. Hoover shared her thoughts on social media, expressing admiration for Lively:

“You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive, and patient since the day we met. Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt,” Hoover wrote.

A Stand for Workplace Safety

This unfolding story underscores ongoing challenges in creating safe work environments in Hollywood. Blake Lively’s courage in speaking out, alongside the support of her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-stars and Colleen Hoover, is a testament to the power of solidarity in the face of adversity.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.

Blake Lively has alleged that her It Ends with Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni played a significant role in derailing her career opportunities, including her scheduled appearance as host for the Saturday Night Live Season 50 premiere.

In a complaint filed with the California Civil Rights Department, Lively accused Baldoni of engaging in a smear campaign that forced her to step back from several high-profile engagements. Among these was her much-anticipated gig as host for the landmark 50th-anniversary season opener of SNL in September 2024.

“The effects on Ms. Lively’s professional life were immediate and substantial,” the legal filing stated. It detailed how the alleged campaign created such intense public scrutiny that Lively felt unable to attend public events without addressing the behind-the-scenes turmoil.

The fallout extended beyond SNL, with Lively reportedly canceling a key appearance at a Target corporate event for her haircare brand, among other commitments.

Accusations Against Baldoni

The court documents reveal a heated meeting in January 2024, following the conclusion of Hollywood’s dual labor strikes, during which Lively and Baldoni discussed her potential return to the It Ends with Us set. In the meeting, Baldoni allegedly made inappropriate comments about Lively’s weight, his personal life, and her religious beliefs.

One of the more shocking allegations includes Lively claiming that Jamey Heath, producer on It Ends with Us and CEO of Baldoni’s Wayfarer Studios, showed her a video of his wife giving birth, an act Lively described as deeply invasive and inappropriate.

Claims of Threats and Harassment

The filing also includes screenshots of text messages and emails exchanged between Lively, Baldoni, and his team. According to the complaint, these communications suggest a coordinated effort to tarnish Lively’s reputation if their professional disputes became public knowledge.

“For example, Ms. Lively canceled a critical Target corporate event for her hair care company, and she backed out of her scheduled role to host the premiere episode of the 50th anniversary season of Saturday Night Live in September 2024,” the complaint read.

A Fallout Felt Across the Industry

Lively’s allegations not only cast a shadow over Baldoni but also raise concerns about the working environment on the set of It Ends with Us, which had already garnered significant attention as an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. The ongoing legal battle could have far-reaching implications for both stars’ careers and for the film’s future.

As this story develops, it highlights the increasing importance of addressing workplace behavior in Hollywood and ensuring accountability in the entertainment industry.

Stay tuned to Project Casting for updates on this story and other industry news.

The box office buzz this weekend was all about the battle of the animal kingdom as Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog 3 raced past Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King Prequel to claim the top spot domestically. While Mufasa roared louder globally, Sonic proved unstoppable at home.

Sonic Leads Domestic Box Office

Directed by Jeff Fowler, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 debuted to a strong $62 million domestically, nearly doubling Mufasa’s $35 million domestic opening. With fewer screens and intense competition, Sonic’s win highlights its widespread appeal among families and gaming fans alike. This marks another successful installment in Paramount’s adaptation of the beloved SEGA franchise, which stars Jim Carrey, Idris Elba, Ben Schwartz, and James Marsden.

Mufasa Rules the Global Market

On the international front, Mufasa dominated with $122 million across 53 territories, easily outpacing Sonic‘s $62 million global total from just 12 territories. Directed by Barry Jenkins, the live-action prequel brings a fresh take on the beloved Lion King legacy. However, critics have been mixed, with some questioning whether Jenkins’ artistic flair aligns with Disney’s formulaic storytelling.

Competition Stays Fierce

The box office showdown reflects a changing landscape dominated by high-profile releases. Recent weeks have seen Universal’s Wicked and Disney’s Moana II battling for supremacy. Over the weekend, both films earned around $13 million domestically, with Wicked edging out Moana II to claim the third spot. Cumulatively, Wicked has grossed $384 million domestically, while Moana II leads globally with $790 million.

Other Box Office Highlights

• Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II: Held steady at sixth place in its fifth week, continuing its strong run.
• Sony’s Kraven the Hunter: Struggles in its second week, failing to gain traction with audiences.
• Angel Studios’ Homestead: A post-apocalyptic thriller with Christian themes, debuted at $6 million—a solid performance for an indie release.
• Holiday Favorites: Dwayne Johnson appears twice in the top 10 with Moana II and Amazon’s Christmas comedy Red One.
• Warner Bros.’ The War of the Rohirrim: Ninth place honors go to this animated Lord of the Rings spin-off.
• Lionsgate’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: Rounds out the top 10 in its seventh week, proving holiday classics have staying power.

Upcoming Releases to Watch

Looking ahead, the upcoming holiday weekend promises an arthouse showdown. Timothée Chalamet stars as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown, while Nicole Kidman delivers a chilling performance in Babygirl. Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu adds a gothic twist to the competition, ensuring there’s something for everyone as 2024 kicks off.

Stay tuned for more box office updates, casting opportunities, and entertainment news on Project Casting—your ultimate resource for breaking industry trends!