Brandon Sklenar Navigates the ‘It Ends With Us’ Legal Drama
Brandon Sklenar finds himself at the intersection of a contentious legal battle involving his former co-stars, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. The actor, who appeared alongside Lively and Baldoni in the film "It Ends With Us," was confronted with a polarizing question during a recent appearance on "CBS Mornings."
Anchor Gayle King boldly asked Sklenar:
"Are you team Blake or team Justin?"
Sklenar, visibly uncomfortable with the query, responded:
"I’m team ‘It Ends With Us.’"
Sklenar’s Discomfort and Focus on the Film’s Message
Sklenar’s reluctance to take sides reflects the inherent sensitivity surrounding the lawsuit. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus on the film’s message and the positive impact it has had.
"I just want people to remember why we made the movie in the first place and what it stands for," he told King. "One of the reasons that me doing that film gave her the strength to change her life."
Sklenar’s Support for Blake Lively
Following Lively’s filing of a formal complaint of sexual harassment, retaliation, and emotional distress against Baldoni, Sklenar expressed his solidarity with his former co-star. On his Instagram story, he urged his followers to educate themselves on the lawsuit, tagging Lively’s account.
His support echoes the sentiment expressed by Jenny Slate, another co-star in "It Ends With Us." Slate described Lively as "a leader, loyal friend, and a trusted source of emotional support" and commended her bravery in pursuing the legal battle.
Justin Baldoni’s Response and Counter Lawsuit
In response to Lively’s lawsuit, Baldoni filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, accusing them of civil extortion and defamation. He released unedited footage from the set of "It Ends With Us" that he claims refutes Lively’s accusations. However, Lively’s legal team maintains that the footage supports her allegations.
Gag Order and Professional Conduct Restrictions
After the release of the footage, Lively’s legal team demanded a gag order be issued against Baldoni’s lawyer. However, a judge has ordered that both Baldoni and Lively’s legal teams follow New York’s Rules of Professional Conduct, which limit speaking to the press.
Both parties are prohibited from making statements that could potentially prejudice a jury. However, they are permitted to defend their clients against publicity not created by either side.
Public Appearances Amidst the Controversy
Despite the ongoing legal drama, Lively and Reynolds made their first public appearance at "Saturday Night Live’s" 50th anniversary show over the weekend.
Conclusion
The legal battle involving Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and their former co-stars continues to unfold. Brandon Sklenar’s diplomacy and emphasis on the film’s message reflect the complex and sensitive nature of the situation. As the legal process progresses, all parties involved are bound to navigate the complexities of public opinion and the limitations imposed by professional conduct guidelines.
