On February 16, 2025, “Saturday Night Live” celebrated its 50th anniversary with a grand special in New York City, featuring some of the biggest stars in Hollywood. Among the notable guests were Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, who made their first public appearance together since Lively filed a lawsuit against her “It Ends With Us” co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment.
Their presence at the event has sparked a wave of reactions, with many in the industry questioning whether the couple should have stayed away from the spotlight given the ongoing legal proceedings. While some fans applauded their appearance as a sign of resilience, others criticized them for attending an event meant for celebration amid such a serious controversy.
A Controversial Appearance
Lively and Reynolds arrived at the “SNL” anniversary event in high spirits, posing for photos on the red carpet. However, their appearance quickly became one of the most talked-about topics of the evening. Some industry insiders expressed their concerns about the timing, suggesting that attending such a public event during an ongoing lawsuit could have unintended consequences on public perception.
Critics argue that their presence may have been inappropriate, given the serious nature of Lively’s allegations. According to sources within the entertainment industry, many felt it was a “bad look” for the couple to be at an event meant for entertainment and nostalgia when such a legal battle looms over them. Some guests reportedly avoided interacting with them, with one insider commenting that “Blake and Ryan were the main topic of conversation behind the scenes.”
Ryan Reynolds’ On-Air Joke Raises Eyebrows
Adding to the controversy, Ryan Reynolds made an unexpected joke during the live broadcast, which some believe was a subtle reference to the ongoing lawsuit. While the specifics of the joke remain unclear, it reportedly drew mixed reactions from the audience.
Some viewers and industry figures found the remark distasteful, arguing that making light of a serious legal matter was inappropriate. Others defended Reynolds, stating that humor is part of his brand and that he likely did not intend to stir controversy. However, given the sensitivity of the situation, some believe that the joke could have been avoided altogether.
Reynolds’ joke has sparked debates about the boundaries of humor, especially when legal matters are involved. Some have pointed out that celebrities often face public scrutiny for their words and actions, and in this case, Reynolds’ remark may have inadvertently fueled further controversy around the case.
Behind-the-Scenes Tensions at the Event
Reports have surfaced about underlying tensions at the “SNL” special regarding Lively and Reynolds’ presence. Some celebrities and industry professionals reportedly felt uncomfortable interacting with them due to the ongoing lawsuit.
One source stated, “There was a noticeable divide in the room. Some were supportive, but others felt that this was not the right time for them to be attending public events.” The insider added that the couple seemed aware of the tension but remained composed throughout the night.
Additionally, some fans on social media questioned whether the couple should have waited until the lawsuit had progressed further before stepping back into the public eye. The situation has reignited discussions about how public figures should navigate personal controversies while maintaining their careers and public image.
The Legal Battle: A Brief Overview
Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni has been a major topic of discussion in Hollywood. The actress alleges that Baldoni engaged in inappropriate behavior during the filming of “It Ends With Us,” a film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. Lively’s accusations have led to a larger conversation about workplace conduct in the entertainment industry, echoing previous #MeToo movement cases.
Baldoni has denied the allegations, and the case is currently making its way through the legal system. Legal experts suggest that the case could take months or even years to reach a resolution, depending on how proceedings unfold.
While the lawsuit is ongoing, public opinion remains divided. Some believe Lively’s decision to come forward is a brave and necessary step in holding powerful figures accountable. Others, however, argue that the lack of concrete evidence presented so far makes it difficult to form a definitive judgment.
Public and Industry Reactions
The reactions to Lively and Reynolds’ appearance at “SNL” 50 have been mixed across both the entertainment industry and social media. Some fans praised them for attending and maintaining a sense of normalcy despite the controversy.
One social media user tweeted, “Blake and Ryan are still standing strong despite everything. That takes courage.” Another wrote, “They shouldn’t be out celebrating when there’s a lawsuit going on. It sends the wrong message.”
Industry professionals have also weighed in, with some expressing concerns that the couple’s decision to appear in public could influence public opinion about the case. A Hollywood producer commented, “These situations are tricky. On one hand, you don’t want to let a legal battle dictate your entire life. On the other, every move you make will be scrutinized.”
Some believe the couple is using their public appearances as a strategic move to control the narrative surrounding the lawsuit. Others think they are simply trying to carry on with their lives as normally as possible. Regardless of intent, their appearance at “SNL” has sparked ongoing conversations about celebrity accountability, legal battles, and media scrutiny.
Conclusion
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ appearance at the “SNL” 50th anniversary special has undoubtedly fueled controversy, with opinions divided on whether it was an appropriate move. Their presence at the event, along with Reynolds’ controversial joke, has intensified discussions surrounding their ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni.
As the lawsuit progresses, public and media scrutiny will likely remain high. The entertainment industry is no stranger to legal controversies, and how Lively and Reynolds navigate this period will be closely watched. For now, the couple appears to be standing their ground, despite the criticism and speculation surrounding them.
Their next steps will be crucial, not only in terms of the legal case but also in shaping their public image moving forward. One thing is certain: Hollywood will be watching closely.
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