Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds made a notable appearance at the “Saturday Night Live” 50th Anniversary Special on February 16, 2025, in New York City. This event marked their first public outing since the onset of legal disputes involving Lively and her “It Ends With Us” co-star, Justin Baldoni. The couple’s presence at the star-studded celebration drew significant media attention, intertwining their professional engagements with ongoing personal controversies.
Lively, 37, captivated attendees with a stunning silver sequin gown adorned with intricate floral embellishments, reflecting her well-known affinity for floral designs. She complemented her ensemble with diamond accessories and metallic heels, exuding elegance and confidence. Reynolds, 48, accompanied her in a classic black tuxedo paired with a bowtie, presenting a united and stylish front. Their coordinated appearance underscored their solidarity amidst the turbulent backdrop of legal challenges.
The “SNL” 50th Anniversary Special was a gathering of illustrious personalities, including Kim Kardashian, Bad Bunny, Meryl Streep, and Anya Taylor-Joy. The event celebrated the show’s enduring legacy and cultural impact over five decades. Lively and Reynolds’ attendance not only highlighted their support for the iconic program but also served as a strategic move to maintain public engagement during a period of intense scrutiny.
During the event, Reynolds addressed the ongoing legal drama with a touch of humor. When questioned by Amy Poehler about the situation, he quipped, “What have you heard?” This lighthearted remark showcased his attempt to diffuse tension and control the narrative surrounding the allegations. The couple’s demeanor throughout the evening suggested resilience and a commitment to focusing on their professional and personal lives despite external pressures.
The legal conflict began in December 2024 when Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign to tarnish her reputation. The allegations detailed instances of inappropriate behavior and unprofessional conduct during the production of “It Ends With Us.” Baldoni has vehemently denied these claims, leading to a series of legal counteractions.
In response to Lively’s lawsuit, Baldoni filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, Reynolds, and their publicist, Leslie Sloan, alleging civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy. The complaint asserts that Lively attempted to seize control of the film’s production through threats and unfounded accusations, thereby causing significant harm to Baldoni’s career and personal life. This legal battle has escalated into a complex web of claims and counterclaims, drawing widespread public and media attention.
Amidst the legal turmoil, Lively has taken assertive steps to substantiate her allegations. Her legal team has issued subpoenas for Baldoni’s phone records, seeking comprehensive data, including calls, texts, and location information spanning over two and a half years. This move aims to uncover evidence supporting her claims of harassment and retaliation. Baldoni’s legal representatives have criticized this action, describing it as a “fishing expedition” indicative of a desperate attempt to find incriminating evidence.
The entertainment industry has been polarized by this dispute, with various celebrities and organizations expressing support for Lively. Notably, author Colleen Hoover, upon whose novel the film is based, has publicly backed Lively, stating, “Never wilt.” Additionally, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has issued statements condemning retaliation against individuals who report harassment, emphasizing the importance of a safe and respectful working environment.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Lively and Reynolds have maintained a public presence, engaging in professional commitments and social events. Their appearance at the “SNL” 50th Anniversary Special exemplifies their effort to project normalcy and resilience. The couple’s interactions with fellow celebrities and their composed demeanor suggest a strategic approach to managing public perception during this challenging period.
The legal battle between Lively and Baldoni is slated for trial on March 9, 2026. As the date approaches, both parties continue to prepare their cases, with the potential for further developments and revelations. The outcome of this high-profile dispute may have significant implications for industry practices, particularly concerning on-set conduct and the handling of harassment allegations.
In summary, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ attendance at the “SNL” 50th Anniversary Special serves as a testament to their resilience and commitment to their public and professional roles amidst personal challenges. Their united front and engagement in industry events reflect a strategic effort to navigate the complexities of public scrutiny while addressing serious allegations. As the legal proceedings unfold, the couple remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice and the preservation of their reputations.
