Amidst a whirlwind of legal drama and social media scrutiny, director Paul Feig has publicly backed Blake Lively following online criticism she received for promoting her film "Another Simple Favor" while embroiled in a legal dispute with Justin Baldoni. Prime Video's announcement of the film's upcoming release, tagging Lively, Anna Kendrick, Feig, and the studios involved, sparked mixed reactions. Some users referenced Lively's ongoing legal battle with Baldoni, director of "It Ends With Us," in which she has accused him of sexual harassment, retaliation, and emotional distress.

Feig staunchly defended Lively, stating she has been incredibly supportive and a joy to collaborate with. He emphasized his admiration for her and clarified that the version of "Another Simple Favor" being released is his director's cut. While some social media users expressed their disapproval of Lively and vowed not to support her work, others voiced their excitement for the film's release and their intention to watch it specifically to support the actress.

This online debate unfolds against the backdrop of a complex legal battle. Lively's lawsuit against Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath followed an initial complaint filed with the California Civil Rights department. Baldoni subsequently countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, for $400 million, alleging civil extortion and defamation. The conflict escalated further when Baldoni accused Lively of impeding the release of "It Ends With Us" due to disagreements over the use of a Taylor Swift song. He published a timeline of events, including text message exchanges, alleging Lively made demands and threatened to withdraw her support for using Swift's song "My Tears Ricochet" in the film's trailer.

Baldoni also released unedited footage from the film set, with both parties claiming it supports their respective allegations. Lively's legal team subsequently sought a gag order against Baldoni's lawyer, arguing that his public statements were prejudicial. Baldoni's team countered, characterizing the gag order request as an intimidation tactic. A judge recently ordered both legal teams to adhere to the New York Rules of Professional Conduct, restricting their communication with the press to avoid prejudicing a potential jury. The legal battle continues, leaving the future of both films and the reputations of those involved hanging in the balance.