Ryan Reynolds Stands By Blake Lively Through Harassment Complaint Battle
Blake Lively is leaning on her husband, Ryan Reynolds, as she navigates a challenging chapter in her life. Following her sexual harassment complaint against It Ends with Us director and co-star Justin Baldoni, sources close to the actress say Ryan has been her unwavering source of strength.
“Ryan is always her rock. They have such a special relationship. He’s very proud of her in so many ways,” a source shared with PEOPLE. Blake, 37, filed a formal complaint alleging sexual harassment, as well as a subsequent smear campaign orchestrated against her. The complaint names Justin, lead producer Jamey Heath, Wayfarer Studios co-founder Steve Sarowitz, and several others.
The complaint outlines several concerning incidents, including inappropriate conversations, discussions about personal sexual experiences, and unauthorized inquiries about Blake’s physical appearance.
Among the specific requests addressed during a production meeting were demands for a full-time intimacy coordinator, boundaries around personal discussions, and adherence to the approved script without adding explicit scenes.
Ryan, who was reportedly present at this critical meeting, has remained steadfast in his support for his wife throughout the ordeal. Justin’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, has since denied the allegations, calling them “false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt.” He also accused Blake of being difficult on set, alleging she threatened not to show up for filming or promote the movie, which, according to him, contributed to its poor reception.
Despite the public storm, Blake is prioritizing her family and the festive season. The A Simple Favor star, who shares four children — 10-year-old James, 8-year-old Inez, 5-year-old Betty, and one-year-old Olin — with Ryan, is channeling her energy into making Christmas magical for her kids.
“For now, she’s said what needed to be said,” the source added.
Blake isn’t facing this battle alone. A wave of support has poured in from her colleagues and friends, including It Ends with Us author Colleen Hoover, director Paul Feig, her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-stars America Ferrera, Alexis Bledel, and Amber Tamblyn, as well as Amy Schumer, Amber Heard, and her sister Robyn Lively with husband Bart Johnson.
