Blake Lively was reportedly «upset» by the drama surrounding *It Ends With Us*, with sources saying, «It felt very out of control to her.» (Exclusive)

Blake Lively was reportedly «upset» by the drama surrounding *It Ends With Us*, with sources saying, «It felt very out of control to her.» (Exclusive)

Blake Lively was taken aback by the negative attention surrounding the release of her hit movie *It Ends With Us*.

According to a source, the actress was «pretty surprised by the backlash and drama» that followed the romantic drama’s debut last month.

«She initially felt very vulnerable and upset,» the source reveals. «During the movie’s promotion, not a single day passed without her being in the news for all the wrong reasons.

The situation reportedly «felt out of control» for Lively. However, the 37-year-old, who is set to star in *A Simple Favor 2* with Anna Kendrick, «loves working and is determined to continue pursuing projects she’s passionate about.»

Blake Lively also served as a producer for the *It Ends With Us* adaptation, which has since become the highest-grossing film of her career.

Tensions between Lively and the film’s director and male lead, Justin Baldoni, ignited a media frenzy after the two costars did not pose for photos together on the red carpet at the premiere. They also skipped joint press appearances leading up to the film’s release.

On top of this, some critics online expressed dissatisfaction with the movie’s marketing, arguing it was misleading given the film’s exploration of domestic violence and trauma.

Despite the controversy, Lively has been transparent about her dedication to the film, expressing hope that it would raise awareness about important issues and inspire and empower women.

*It Ends With Us* is a story that captures the full spectrum of the female experience—both the highest highs and the lowest lows. “We are incredibly proud of it,” Blake Lively shared on Instagram after the opening weekend.

“We’ve celebrated this film and the powerful message it carries.

Thank you all for embracing *It Ends With Us* with the same love, pain, and joy that we felt while making it.”

Brandon Sklenar, Lively’s costar, has spoken out against the «negativity» directed at the women of the cast.

On Instagram, he wrote, «Vilifying the women who poured their heart and soul into making this film because they believe so strongly in its message is counterproductive and detracts from what the film truly represents.

*It Ends With Us* has earned over $300 million at the global box office, though the chances of a sequel seem slim.