Brandon Sklenar defended Blake Lively amid "It Ends With Us" controversy, accused of 'mansplaining'

It Ends With Us actor Brandon Sklenar has publicly sided with Blake Lively amidst growing controversy surrounding the film and her role in its promotion. In a statement posted on Instagram on August 20, Sklenar, who plays Lively’s childhood boyfriend in the much-anticipated adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel, defended the actress against what he described as unjust "vilification."

Sklenar addressed the backlash Lively has received for allegedly trivialising the film’s serious subject matter, which centres on domestic violence. “Colleen [Hoover] and the women of this cast stand for hope, perseverance, and for women choosing a better life for themselves,” Sklenar wrote. He criticised the negative attention Lively has garnered, stating, “Vilifying the women who put so much of their heart and soul into making this film because they believe so strongly in its message seems counterproductive.”

The controversy surrounding It Ends With Us intensified after reports of tension between Lively and the film’s director, Justin Baldoni. Speculation has circulated about an on-set rift, with claims that Lively and Baldoni had conflicting visions for the movie, particularly concerning its portrayal of domestic violence. Despite these rumours, Sklenar urged the public to focus on the film’s core message rather than the behind-the-scenes drama.

Sklenar also shared a personal connection to the film’s narrative, revealing that he knows someone who experienced a relationship similar to the one depicted in the story. He emphasised the responsibility the cast and crew felt in bringing awareness to the issue of domestic violence, saying, “Ultimately it’s meant to spread love and awareness. It is not meant to once again, make the women the ‘bad guy.’”

However, Sklenar’s statement was met with criticism, as many online users accused him of "mansplaining" and missing the point of the backlash. Despite turning off comments on his post, discussions continued on other platforms, with some fans expressing frustration that the actor appeared to dismiss valid concerns about Lively’s promotional approach.

Lively has yet to directly address the controversy, although she recently posted a domestic abuse hotline number on her Instagram story. Baldoni has also refrained from commenting, though reports suggest he has hired a crisis PR firm to manage the situation.