Brandon Sklenar Responds to Online Criticism Amid ‘It Ends With Us’ Backlash
Brandon Sklenar, star of the upcoming film It Ends With Us, has spoken out in response to the mounting online criticism surrounding the movie’s release and promotion. The film, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling 2016 novel, has faced backlash due to various controversies, including reports of creative tensions on set and concerns over its handling of sensitive topics like domestic violence.
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Sklenar expressed his support for the women involved in the film, particularly Hoover and the female cast members. He emphasized that the core message of the movie is one of hope, perseverance, and empowerment for women striving to build better lives for themselves. In his post, Sklenar stated, “Vilifying the women who have poured their heart and soul into this project because they believe in its message is counterproductive and detracts from the film’s true purpose.”
Sklenar directly addressed the rumors of creative differences between lead actress and co-executive producer Blake Lively and director Justin Baldoni. While acknowledging that such issues might have occurred, he urged viewers not to let these reports overshadow the film’s intentions. “What may or may not have happened behind the scenes should not diminish the important message we aimed to convey,” Sklenar wrote. He also lamented the negativity that has been circulating online, calling it disheartening.
Another significant point of contention has been the film’s approach to domestic violence, a central theme in both the novel and the movie. Critics have raised concerns that the promotional campaign has downplayed this critical issue. In response, Sklenar assured fans that the entire team was acutely aware of the responsibility they bore in addressing such a sensitive topic. “We were committed to honoring the experiences of women who have faced generational trauma and domestic abuse,” he wrote. Sklenar reiterated that the film is intended to inspire hope, raise awareness, and spread love.
In his closing remarks, Sklenar urged his followers to stop spreading negativity online and to focus on the positive impact the film seeks to make. He called for a collective effort to “be a part of something better together” and to support the film’s message of empowerment rather than perpetuating harmful narratives.
Sony Pictures Entertainment Chair-CEO Tony Vinciquerra also defended the film’s promotional efforts, stating that significant care was taken to handle the subject matter with sensitivity. He highlighted the dedication of the women involved in the production, who worked tirelessly to ensure that the movie’s important themes were treated with the respect they deserve.
It Ends With Us tells the story of Lily Bloom, a flower shop owner who overcomes a traumatic past marked by abuse. As she embarks on a new relationship with Ryle Kincaid, she begins to notice troubling patterns that echo her parents’ abusive relationship. The film aims to shed light on the pervasive issue of intimate partner violence, which affects millions each year.
As the release of It Ends With Us draws nearer, Sklenar hopes that the focus will shift from the controversies to the film’s core message—one of hope, healing, and the empowerment of all people to overcome their pasts and build brighter futures.
