Baldoni vs. Lively: Fight over Director’s Final Cut

Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively brought two very different visions to “It Ends With Us.” Fans saw Lively’s version in theaters, but Baldoni’s cut was never shown. Behind-the-scenes drama and lawsuits now overshadow the romantic drama’s success.

Allegations and legal Battles

Director Justin Baldoni, 40, claims he and Lively, 37, clashed over creative control. Two competing cuts emerged during production. Lively’s version won the battle, leaving Baldoni’s unseen. Allegations of misconduct and lawsuits have followed, adding fuel to the controversy.

Lively filed a sexual harassment complaint on December 20, accusing Baldoni and his team of retaliation and a smear campaign. Days later, Baldoni denied the claims and sued The New York Times for its reporting. The newspaper stands by its story and promises to defend its reporting in court.

In response, Lively filed her own lawsuit against Baldoni and the producers. Baldoni’s lawyers have hinted at countersuing Lively and her team. The legal battles have shifted the spotlight from the film’s storyline to the courtroom drama.

Two competing Versions

According to Baldoni, his cut tested better with audiences. Lively allegedly pressured Sony Pictures, the distributor, to choose her version. She reportedly claimed Colleen Hoover, the book’s author, would support her if the dispute escalated. Ultimately, Sony backed Lively’s vision.

Baldoni’s complaint accuses Lively of removing his “A Film By” credit and ensuring his absence from promotional materials. Alleged text messages reveal Baldoni’s frustration as he waited for Lively’s version. One editor expressed hope that the film’s strong foundation would shine through, despite changes.

Lively’s Hands-On Role

Lively’s involvement extended beyond acting. She contributed costumes, pulled connections for the soundtrack, and claimed her husband, Ryan Reynolds, added pivotal dialogue. Lively earned her first producer credit for the film. She told Digital Spy she felt “grateful” for her creative input, saying, “The work I did outside of acting was more meaningful than my role as an actor.”

A Box Office Success

When “It Ends With Us” premiered, it became Lively’s highest-grossing film. Sony Pictures praised her passion and hinted at future collaborations. Despite the success, Baldoni’s version remains a topic of speculation.

Controversial Scenes

Lively’s lawsuit accuses Baldoni of adding unapproved scenes, including a detailed depiction of her character’s first sexual experience. These scenes were not in the original script or book. Lively claims Baldoni insisted the additions represented the “female gaze.” He later agreed to remove them.

Sequel Speculation

In a red carpet interview, Baldoni suggested Lively should direct a potential sequel, “It Starts With Us.” He still holds the rights to Colleen Hoover’s follow-up book but hinted he might step aside.

Growing Support for Lively

Support for Lively has grown since her lawsuit became public. Co-stars Brandon Sklenar and Jenny Slate have voiced their admiration. Slate called Lively a “leader” and praised her bravery.

What Comes Next?

Baldoni’s legal team plans to release text messages between him and Lively. “We want people to see the receipts,” his lawyer stated. Meanwhile, Lively’s lawyers remain confident, asserting that Baldoni’s countersuit doesn’t undermine her claims.

The battle over “It Ends With Us” has turned into a real-life drama. As lawsuits unfold, fans are left wondering what Baldoni’s version might have offered. For now, Lively’s cut is the one that captured hearts—and headlines.