“It’s a Tough Situation”—Brandon Sklenar Reacts to Explosive It Ends With Us Scandal!

Brandon Sklenar has shared his thoughts on the ongoing legal battle between his It Ends With Us costar Blake Lively and the film’s director Justin Baldoni. Speaking at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars Party on March 2, the actor—best known for his roles in 1923 and the thriller Drop—opened up about how he is navigating this “tough situation” and offering his support to Lively during this challenging time.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Sklenar, who played Lively’s love interest, Atlas, in It Ends With Us, was asked how he was hoping to support Lively. Sklenar, 34, responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the complexities of the situation. “I just… It’s a tough situation,” he said. “I just hope everyone remembers what the movie is about and why we made it in the first place. It’s about love. It’s about supporting women in general and helping people through tough times.”

He emphasized the core message of the film, stating that It Ends With Us has had a significant emotional impact, helping many people. “I just want people to remember what it’s about, why we made it, and to kinda keep it on that,” Sklenar continued. “That kind of, like, core ethos, you know what I mean?”

Lively, 37, filed a lawsuit against Baldoni in December, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation, which Baldoni, 41, denies. In response, Baldoni countersued, accusing Lively and others of defamation and extortion. Sklenar, who has shown continued support for Lively, shared a link to her court filing in December, urging his followers on Instagram, “FOR THE LOVE OF GOD READ THIS,” alongside a heart emoji tagging Lively.

The actor also addressed the question of loyalty when asked by CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King on February 17 whether he was “Team Blake or Team Justin.” Sklenar laughed off the question and replied, “I’m Team It Ends With Us,” making it clear that his focus remains on the film and its message, rather than getting caught up in the public dispute.

Back in August, Sklenar shared his thoughts on the importance of supporting the women behind It Ends With Us, including Lively, costars Isabela Ferrer and Jenny Slate, and author Colleen Hoover. “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 wrote on Instagram. He added that the personal issues behind the scenes should not overshadow the positive intentions of the filmmakers and cast.

Sklenar’s support for Lively has been consistent, and it remains evident that his loyalty lies with the movie’s purpose and the women involved. As the legal proceedings continue, Lively’s amended complaint filed in February revealed that two female costars from It Ends With Us are reportedly willing to testify against Baldoni to support her claims. Baldoni’s lawyer, however, has dismissed the claims, calling the amended complaint “unsubstantial hearsay.”

As the situation unfolds, Sklenar’s emphasis on the film’s core message of love, support, and resilience continues to be a steady reminder of the powerful impact It Ends With Us has had on audiences. While the legal battle remains unresolved, Sklenar’s focus remains on honoring the film’s intentions, offering his unwavering support to his costars, particularly Lively, during this difficult time.