Blake Lively’s TIME100 Recognition Comes Amid Lawsuit Drama – Here’s What She Had to Say About It
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Blake Lively has earned a spot on TIME magazine’s prestigious list of the 100 most influential people in the world for 2025, a moment she doesn’t take lightly, especially amidst her ongoing legal battle with actor and director Justin Baldoni. The actress, best known for her roles in Gossip Girl and The Age of Adaline, shared an emotional tribute following the announcement, thanking TIME and reflecting on the honor of being named alongside figures such as President Donald Trump and Joe Rogan.
At 37, Lively has carved out a career defined by more than just her acting. Alongside her film and television projects, she has become an advocate for social change and philanthropy. In her Instagram post, Lively expressed her gratitude for the recognition and offered a heartfelt message to her younger self, acknowledging the surreal nature of the honor. “To be written about by the great @sherrilynifill is not something I take lightly,” Lively wrote, referring to the civil rights lawyer who penned the essay about her for the TIME100 list. Lively added that Ifill’s influence has shaped her own work in advocating for a better future.
Lively’s place on the list comes at a complicated time in her personal life. She is embroiled in a lawsuit with Justin Baldoni, her director and costar in It Ends With Us, which she filed late last year. Baldoni countersued her, and the case is set to go to trial in March 2026. Despite the legal turbulence, Lively’s commitment to social change and her advocacy work remains at the forefront of her public persona. In her post, she thanked TIME for the recognition and expressed her admiration for Ifill, whose work has deeply influenced Lively’s approach to activism.
The essay penned by Ifill paints a picture of Lively that goes beyond her red carpet appearances and acting roles. “I don’t know the Blake Lively of the red carpet. Or the Met Gala. I never watched Gossip Girl,” Ifill wrote. “The Blake Lively I know is a philanthropist and a student of our country’s most intractable problems.” Ifill, who has been a mentor and a source of inspiration for Lively, highlighted her genuine commitment to making a difference, noting Lively’s involvement in significant social justice causes, including a contribution to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund with her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, in 2019.
“Ifill described Lively as ‘sincere,’ recalling how the actress took the time to do her research before offering support for causes like voter suppression and police brutality. “She’s committed to moving this country forward. For her children. And for mine,” Ifill concluded, underscoring the depth of Lively’s commitment to the issues that matter most.
Lively’s post was accompanied by a black-and-white photo of her on the TIME100 cover, as well as a screenshot of the essay Ifill wrote. In her message, Lively took a moment to reflect on how far she has come since her younger years, expressing amazement at the journey and the impact she has been able to make.
Looking ahead, Lively’s career continues to flourish. Her upcoming movie, Another Simple Favor, is set to debut on Prime Video on May 1, adding to her already impressive roster of projects. As she navigates the challenges in her personal life and career, Lively’s place among the world’s most influential individuals serves as a testament to her strength, determination, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
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