Kate Beckinsale has expressed her solidarity with Blake Lively amid the actress’s legal battle against Justin Baldoni, director and actor of It Ends With Us. Taking to social media, Beckinsale revealed her own traumatic experiences of being “assaulted” and “felt up” on film sets. She recounted incidents where she was insulted and dismissed when she sought help.
Blake Lively has filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and bullying during the production of It Ends With Us. The allegations have sparked widespread industry conversations, with Beckinsale among the high-profile figures to weigh in.
Beckinsale’s Revelations
In a heartfelt video, Beckinsale shared that, while she does not know Lively or Baldoni personally, she has been closely following the case, calling it “a situation that resonates with many.” She spoke about the systemic dismissiveness faced by women in the industry who come forward with complaints of harassment.
Recounting her own experience, Beckinsale described being assaulted at the age of 18 by someone she trusted on a film crew. She sought support from two prominent actresses, only to have her claims dismissed. “I was crying, explaining what happened, but was told, ‘No, it didn’t happen,’” she revealed. Beckinsale emphasized that such responses are part of a broader issue where victims are silenced or discredited.
The Case Against Justin Baldoni
Lively’s 80-page lawsuit alleges sexual harassment, bullying, and the initiation of a smear campaign by Baldoni. In response, Baldoni has denied the allegations and plans to file a countersuit. The legal battle has drawn attention from industry insiders and advocates, with notable figures like Amy Schumer, America Ferrera, Amber Heard, and It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover voicing their support for Lively.
Industry Reckoning
Beckinsale’s and Lively’s experiences highlight ongoing challenges in addressing harassment within the entertainment industry. Beckinsale’s decision to share her story adds another layer to the broader conversation about accountability and systemic change.
The legal proceedings between Lively and Baldoni are still unfolding, with the industry and public closely watching how this case will impact future conversations around workplace conduct and safety in Hollywood.