In a heartfelt birthday tribute to Colleen Hoover, Blake Lively expressed her gratitude for the author’s profound impact on her life. On her Instagram Story, Lively, known for her role as Lily Bloom in the film adaptation of Hoover’s novel “It Ends With Us,” shared, “Everyone who knows this woman is changed for it.”
Continuing her praise, the 37-year-old actress described Hoover as “calm and steady,” emphasizing that her integrity serves as a solid foundation. “Her humor levels you outta nowhere. Her quiet fortitude is mighty. And she always chooses the kindest path,” Lively added.
Sharing love and laughter, Lively honors Colleen Hoover’s profound influence
Lively highlighted Hoover’s love for her supporters, friends, community, family, and, humorously, her affection for Diet Pepsi. “But mostly she loves Diet Pepsi. And oh boy do we love her,” she wrote.
Concluding her message, Lively wished Hoover a happy birthday, stating, “My life has changed because of your work. Your art. Your friendship. For good. So many people’s have. And we thank you. Today and every day.”
The post featured a joyful selfie of Lively and Hoover enjoying corn alongside two others. In January 2023, Lively’s involvement in “It Ends With Us” was announced, with Justin Baldoni co-starring as Ryle Kincaid and directing the film.
However, rumors of tension between the cast overshadowed the film’s press tour when it premiered in August. Page Six reported that Baldoni made Lively feel “uncomfortable” on set, while Us Weekly claimed he felt “hurt and sidelined” by decisions she made without consulting him.
Neither Lively nor Baldoni has publicly addressed the speculation regarding their working relationship. Co-star Brandon Sklenar defended Lively on Instagram, arguing against vilifying the women who dedicated themselves to the film’s important message.
The 34-year-old actor, who portrayed Atlas Corrigan, stated, “What may or may not have happened behind the scenes does not and hopefully should not detract from [the project].”
During this period, Lively also gained attention for her thoughtful approach to discussing the film’s serious theme of domestic violence in interviews. She became a viral sensation on social media due to a previous “nightmare” interview that reportedly made an entertainment reporter want to quit her job.
In response to the scrutiny, Lively’s sister, Robyn Lively, and her husband, Bart Johnson, publicly defended her through pointed posts on Instagram.
Regarding the possibility of Baldoni directing a sequel, the “Jane the Virgin” star hinted at uncertainty during an interview with “Entertainment Tonight.” He remarked, “I think that there are better people for that one. I think Blake Lively’s ready to direct, that’s what I think.”
