Blake Lively turned heads at the world premiere of Another Simple Favor in Austin, Texas, as she graced the red carpet despite ongoing legal turmoil with her It Ends with Us co-star Justin Baldoni. The event, held on March 7, 2025, during the SXSW Film & TV Festival, saw the 37-year-old actress in high spirits, reuniting with co-star Anna Kendrick and director Paul Feig.
A Star-Studded Red Carpet Affair
Lively, known for her effortless charm and impeccable fashion sense, stole the spotlight as she arrived at the screening. Fans and photographers eagerly captured her dazzling look, making the premiere a major highlight of the festival.
She wasn’t alone in the limelight. Anna Kendrick, her co-star from both the 2018 film A Simple Favor and the new sequel, also walked the carpet, embracing the buzz surrounding their reunion. Director Paul Feig, whose flair for mixing dark humor with stylish storytelling made the first film a cult favorite, was also in attendance, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The film itself has been eagerly awaited by audiences, with its theatrical release coinciding with the SXSW premiere. Amazon Prime Video has secured the streaming rights, with the film set to be available for home viewing starting May 1, 2025.
Inside Another Simple Favor
The sequel takes viewers back into the twisted yet glamorous world of Emily Nelson, played by Lively. This time, the plot unfolds in the breathtaking backdrop of Capri, Italy, where Emily, freshly out of prison, invites Stephanie (played by Kendrick) to be her maid of honor in a wedding that promises secrets, betrayal, and intrigue.
Feig’s directorial touch ensures a thrilling mix of suspense and comedy, much like its predecessor. Fans of the original film can expect another stylish mystery filled with unexpected twists and, of course, Lively’s signature on-screen presence.
Legal Storm Surrounding Lively and Baldoni
While Lively celebrated the release of her latest film, her legal battle with Baldoni cast a shadow over the occasion. In December 2024, she sued Baldoni over allegations of sexual harassment, accusations that he vehemently denied. The controversy took a sharp turn when Baldoni retaliated with a counter-lawsuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, accusing them of defamation and seeking $300 million in damages.
The legal dispute has captured public attention, with both camps standing firm on their claims. The trial is slated to begin in March 2026, ensuring the case will remain a topic of discussion for months to come.
The Fallout and Industry Reactions
The entertainment industry has been closely watching the developments, as high-profile legal battles often bring professional and reputational risks. Hollywood insiders speculate that the controversy could impact both Lively’s and Baldoni’s future projects, though neither has shown signs of slowing down.
• Lively continues her work on upcoming projects, with multiple films in development.
• Baldoni remains active in filmmaking despite the ongoing lawsuit, maintaining his presence in Hollywood.
• Industry experts predict the case’s outcome could influence how legal disputes in Hollywood unfold in the coming years.
While the legal drama is far from over, Lively’s red carpet appearance sent a clear message—she’s not letting the courtroom overshadow her career.
