Blake Lively attended the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film & TV Festival in Austin, Texas, to promote her latest film, “Another Simple Favor,” amid ongoing legal disputes with co-star and director Justin Baldoni. Notably, her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, was absent from the event, sparking speculation about the couple’s public appearances during this tumultuous period.
Lively’s Solo Appearance at SXSW
On March 12, 2025, Lively graced the red carpet at SXSW without Reynolds by her side. The actress shared her enthusiasm on Instagram, expressing gratitude for reuniting with her co-stars and calling the experience a “gift.” She also joked about returning to “sweatpants” after the event, highlighting the contrast between glamorous appearances and everyday life.
Legal Turmoil with Justin Baldoni
Lively’s appearance comes amid a legal battle with Baldoni, stemming from allegations she made during the 2024 production of “It Ends with Us.” She accused Baldoni of creating a hostile work environment through inappropriate behavior, including unsolicited physical contact and discussions about his personal life. In response, Baldoni filed a $400 million countersuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and her publicist, alleging defamation and breach of contract.
Reynolds’ Absence Fuels Speculation
Reynolds’ decision to skip the SXSW premiere has led to various interpretations. Some sources suggest that the couple is strategizing their public appearances to protect their individual careers amid the ongoing legal issues. An insider noted that their joint appearance on the “Saturday Night Live” 50th Anniversary special received mixed reactions, prompting them to reconsider attending events together during this sensitive time.
Anna Kendrick’s Subtle Remarks
At the SXSW event, co-star Anna Kendrick was asked about working with Lively again. Her brief response, “Oh, you know,” followed by continued interactions with fans, has been interpreted by some as a subtle dig at Lively. However, director Paul Feig dismissed these rumors, emphasizing the camaraderie among the cast.
Looking Ahead
Despite the legal challenges, Lively remains focused on her professional commitments and family life. She continues to engage with fans and share personal moments on social media, aiming to maintain a positive public image. The legal proceedings with Baldoni are ongoing, with trials scheduled for March 2026.
As the situation develops, both Lively and Reynolds appear to be navigating their public and private lives carefully, balancing their careers, legal battles, and family responsibilities.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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