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Blake Lively has been recognized for years as one of the most delightful and fashionable actresses in Hollywood, gaining fame for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl and her seemingly perfect life with husband Ryan Reynolds. However, beneath the glamorous appearances on the red carpet and enviable social media posts, the actress has encountered her share of controversies that have, at times, challenged her “America’s sweetheart” reputation.

Blake Lively's collaboration with Woody Allen

One of the initial controversies involving Lively was her participation in Woody Allen’s 2016 film Café Society. During a period when Hollywood was confronting the #MeToo movement and serious allegations against Allen were widely publicized, Lively’s choice to work with him faced significant backlash. Many criticized her public advocacy for women while partnering with a director accused of misconduct. Although she defended her decision by emphasizing her belief in due process, the criticism underscored the perceived double standards prevalent in Hollywood.
Blake Lively's racially insensitive remark

In 2016, Lively also faced backlash for a caption she shared during the Cannes Film Festival. Posting a glamorous image of herself on the red carpet, she wrote “L.A. face with an Oakland booty,” a line from Sir Mix-a-Lot’s song Baby Got Back. The remark was widely criticized as racially insensitive, with detractors accusing her of reinforcing stereotypes. Lively later attempted to clarify her intentions, but the impact on her public image remained.
Blake and Ryan's contentious wedding location

Another incident that ignited discussion was her marriage to Ryan Reynolds at Boone Hall Plantation in South Carolina in 2012. Years later, the couple publicly expressed regret for selecting a venue associated with slavery, labeling it a mistake. In a time when celebrity accountability is heavily scrutinized, this choice has resurfaced multiple times and is still referenced as a misstep in her otherwise meticulously managed public image.
It Ends With Us - A major controversy

Blake Lively also recently encountered criticism regarding her role in the 2024 film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel It Ends With Us. The film, which addresses sensitive issues such as domestic violence, was accused by some fans and critics of romanticizing unhealthy relationships in its promotional content and trailers. Many contended that the marketing did not adequately reflect the serious themes of the narrative, igniting discussions on social media about the responsibility of portraying such subjects.
However, what followed was unexpected. Director and actor Justin Baldoni filed a lawsuit against Blake Lively, and the actress also initiated legal action concerning sexual and workplace harassment. The outcome of the case is still pending, and public opinion is divided on whom to support.
Despite these controversies, Lively has managed to flourish in Hollywood, juggling acting, motherhood, and entrepreneurship. While her image as Hollywood’s sweetheart may have been tarnished, her willingness to grow and acknowledge past errors has maintained her appeal with the public.

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