Blake Lively is once again at the center of controversy as past accusations of difficult on-set behavior resurface. 

Barbara Szeman, who worked as a fourth assistant director on Lively’s 2018 film A Simple Favor, 

recently made cryptic social media posts that many believe were aimed at the actress. 

Szeman suggested that her negative experience working on the film led her to quit the industry altogether.

Social Media Posts Spark Speculation

The controversy began when British actor Henry Golding, Lively’s co-star in A Simple Favor, shared a promotional poster for the sequel, Another Simple Favor, set to premiere on Prime Video in May. 

The film’s director, Paul Feig, had originally posted the update, which Golding reshared with the caption, “From my man crush @paulfeig, with love.”

In response, Szeman reportedly commented, “I worked with you on the first one. My experience with everyone was absolutely amazing, except for a certain someone who is the reason I quit being an AD. Guess who that person is…”

The comment quickly drew attention, and when pressed further, Szeman elaborated, stating, “She was cruel to many. I know I cried my way home many nights because you try so hard to please someone who is never pleased and puts you down constantly.”

Though Lively’s name was never explicitly mentioned, many assumed that Szeman was referring to the Gossip Girl star. The assistant director later added, “I can’t believe it’s actually getting back at her. Karma is real.”

Shortly after the comments gained traction, Szeman’s Instagram account, @barbwiretv, disappeared from the platform. However, her remarks had already been widely circulated.

Paul Feig Defends Lively Amid Allegations

While Szeman’s comments stirred controversy, Paul Feig, the director of both A Simple Favor and its upcoming sequel, quickly came to Lively’s defense. Responding to an Instagram user questioning the actress’s alleged behavior, Feig wrote, “Blake has been nothing but supportive and a dream to work with. She is the best and an amazing collaborator, and I’m her biggest fan.”

In a separate post, Feig continued to praise Lively, emphasizing that she and co-star Anna Kendrick delivered “amazing performances” in the sequel. His unwavering support for the actress appears to counter Szeman’s claims, creating a divide between those who believe the assistant director’s allegations and those who stand by Lively.

Anna Kendrick Caught in the Crossfire

Anna Kendrick, who plays opposite Lively in the Simple Favor films, has also found herself unintentionally dragged into the drama. While Kendrick has remained silent on the issue, a source told People that she is “not used to being caught up in any drama” and was upset by fans suggesting they might boycott the film due to Lively’s involvement.

The resurfacing of these allegations has reignited old rumors of tension between Kendrick and Lively on the set of the first film. However, another source dismissed these claims, insisting, “There really is no drama or rift between them.”

A third insider further reassured fans that Lively and Kendrick would both be actively participating in promotional events for the sequel.

A Career Under Scrutiny Amid Legal Battle

The resurfacing of on-set accusations against Lively comes at an already tumultuous time for the actress, who is currently embroiled in a highly publicized legal battle with her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni.

Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and claims he orchestrated a smear campaign against her following their time working on the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. Baldoni has denied the allegations and has countersued both Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, accusing them of defamation and extortion.

Baldoni’s legal filings include alleged text messages and behind-the-scenes details that he claims prove Lively attempted to control the film’s production, including reportedly overspending on wardrobe costs and skipping key meetings.

What’s Next for Lively?

As Another Simple Favor prepares to premiere at the SXSW festival in March, Lively’s professional future remains uncertain. With new allegations surfacing alongside her legal battle, the actress finds herself at the center of increasing scrutiny.

While some colleagues, like Feig, continue to stand by her, the growing number of accusations could impact public perception. Whether Lively can weather this storm and maintain her career momentum remains to be seen.

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