Blake Lively’s Time100 Speech Takes a Bold Turn with Subtle Justin Baldoni Drama Reveal

Ryan Reynolds proved once again why he’s known as one of Hollywood’s most supportive husbands. Just moments before Blake Lively delivered an emotional speech at the TIME100 Gala on Thursday night, the Deadpool star was seen offering her a heartfelt pep talk — complete with kisses — in a sweet moment captured exclusively by Page Six.

Lively, 37, was one of the evening’s honorees, recognized as one of TIME’s “Most Influential People of 2025.” As she took the stage at New York City’s Jazz at Lincoln Center, her husband’s encouragement clearly lingered, bolstering her through a deeply personal and courageous speech.

The Gossip Girl alum used the opportunity to share a moving tribute to her mother, Willie Elaine McAlpin, who attended the gala alongside Reynolds. Lively revealed that her “eternal optimist” of a mother was a survivor of “the worst crime someone can commit against a woman” — a truth McAlpin had carried quietly for decades. By choosing to speak openly, Lively underscored the power of storytelling, declaring, “If we name it, we change it.”

In a particularly poignant moment, Lively publicly thanked “every man, including my sweet husband,” for being “kind and good when no one is watching,” earning a warm response from the star-studded audience. Her remarks not only honored her personal history but also reflected her broader advocacy for integrity and accountability.

Though Lively kept the spotlight primarily on her mother’s resilience, she briefly alluded to her ongoing legal battle with It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni. The actress is currently suing Baldoni for sexual harassment and a smear campaign — allegations Baldoni has vehemently denied while filing a countersuit. “I have so much to say about the last two years of my life, but tonight is not the forum,” Lively told the audience, hinting at deeper personal struggles while emphasizing her belief in the importance of having a voice.

The evening was a who’s who of celebrity power, with notable attendees including Serena Williams, Snoop Dogg, Gayle King, Demi Moore, Adam Scott, and Adrien Brody. Yet amid the glitz and acclaim, it was the intimate show of support between Reynolds and Lively — a quick whisper, a reassuring kiss — that captured the heart of the night, reminding everyone that behind every powerful voice is often someone quietly cheering them on.