Brandon Sklenar, one of the stars of the film It Ends with Us, has come forward to defend his co-star Blake Lively, author Colleen Hoover, and the women involved in the film’s production against a wave of online criticism. The 34-year-old actor, who portrays Atlas in the adaptation of Hoover’s best-selling novel, addressed the controversy in a heartfelt Instagram post on Tuesday, August 20.
Sklenar Speaks Out Against Online Negativity
In his post, Sklenar expressed concern over the negative discourse surrounding the film’s casting and production. “I wanted to take a minute and address all this stuff swirling online,” Sklenar began. “Colleen and the women of this cast stand for hope, perseverance, and for women choosing a better life for themselves. 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 and detracts from what this film is about.”
Sklenar emphasized that the criticism runs contrary to the film’s core message. “It is, in fact, the opposite of the point. What may or may not have happened behind the scenes does not and hopefully should not detract from what our intentions were in making this film. It’s been disheartening to see the amount of negativity being projected online,” he continued.
Rumors and Criticism Surrounding the Film
It Ends with Us has faced considerable scrutiny, particularly surrounding Lively’s casting and behavior. Ahead of the movie’s release last week, rumors of an on-set feud between the film’s director and star, Justin Baldoni, and Lively began circulating online. Following the release, Lively encountered further backlash for what some fans deemed a “tone-deaf” approach to promoting the movie and for her “rude” behavior in a resurfaced 2016 interview with Norwegian journalist Kjersti Flaa.
Despite the drama, Sklenar highlighted the personal impact the film and the original novel have had on individuals close to him. He shared that “someone very close to me has been struggling with a relationship that has mirrored Lily’s closely.” In the film, Lively’s character Lily navigates an abusive relationship with neurosurgeon Ryle, played by Baldoni. “Prior to my involvement in this film, she had not heard of the book. It was only then that she read it. She credits Colleen’s book and subsequently this film with saving her life,” Sklenar revealed.
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The Importance of the Film’s Message
Sklenar underscored the responsibility felt by the cast and crew in bringing such a sensitive and powerful story to life. “Trust me when I tell you, there isn’t a single person involved in the making of this film that was not aware of the responsibility we had in making this. A responsibility to all the women who have experienced generational trauma – Domestic abuse – Or struggle with looking in the mirror and loving who they see,” he wrote.
The actor also addressed the broader impact the film is intended to have, particularly on men. “This movie is a harsh reality check for the men who need to get their s*** together and take responsibility for themselves and their actions,” he added. “This film is meant to inspire. It’s meant to validate and recognize. It’s meant to instill hope. It’s meant to build courage and help people feel less alone. Ultimately, it’s meant to spread love and awareness. It’s not meant to once again make the women the ‘bad guy,’ let’s move beyond that together.”
A Call for Kindness
In concluding his post, Sklenar urged the public to reconsider the impact of their words and actions online. “All I ask is that before you spread hate on the internet, ask yourself who it’s helping. Ask yourself if your opinions are based in any fact. Or if you simply want to be part of something. Let’s be a part of something better together. A part of a new story being written for women and all people everywhere,” he wrote, signing off with a message of compassion: “Lead with Love and please be kind.”
Despite the ongoing online controversy and mixed reviews from critics, It Ends with Us has found commercial success, crossing $100 million at the U.S. box office on its eleventh day in theaters. This milestone suggests that, despite the backlash, the film’s message is resonating with audiences.
