When Blake Lively was unable to attend the premiere of Ryan Reynolds’ latest project, she sent her family to offer their support on the red carpet, demonstrating a strong backing during a significant moment for Reynolds. On Thursday, October 2, Reynolds, 48, appeared alongside Blake’s sisters Robin and Lori Lively, as well as her niece Kate Johnson, at the premiere for the documentary John Candy: I Like Me, where Reynolds served as a co-producer.
The event took place in a setting honoring the late comedian John Candy, who passed away on March 4, 1994, at age 43 from a heart attack. Prominent figures such as Macaulay Culkin, Colin Hanks, and Martin Short, all featured in the film, also attended the premiere.
Blake Lively Supports Friend Amid Her Own Legal Challenges
Although Blake Lively did not join Ryan Reynolds for the public event, she was active on social media the following day, celebrating the release of Taylor Swift’s new album, The Life of Showgirl. This positive gesture arrives amidst Lively’s ongoing legal battle with the director and co-star Justin Baldoni of the film It Ends With Us.
The ongoing dispute began in December 2024, when Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and alleged he mounted a smear campaign against her. Baldoni denied these claims and responded with a countersuit that was dismissed in June 2025. The lawsuit is still moving forward, with court dates scheduled for March 2026. Baldoni’s legal team also subpoenaed Taylor Swift during this process, but Swift denied any involvement with the film’s production.
Taylor Swift never set foot on the set of this movie, she was not involved in any casting or creative decisions, she did not score the film, she never saw an edit or made any notes on the film,
Swift’s representative said in a May 2025 statement to Us Weekly.
She did not even see It Ends With Us until weeks after its public release, and was traveling around the globe during 2023 and 2024 headlining the biggest tour in history.
Following this, Baldoni’s team withdrew the subpoena later that same month.
We are pleased that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties have withdrawn their harassing subpoenas to Taylor Swift and her law firm,
Lively’s representatives stated.
We supported the efforts of Taylor’s team to quash these inappropriate subpoenas directed to her counsel and we will continue to stand up for any third party who is unjustly harassed or threatened in the process.
Strained Connections Highlight the Case’s Complexity
The legal conflict appears to have placed a strain on Lively’s friendships, including with Swift. An insider revealed to Us Weekly that though the withdrawal of the subpoena was positive, the personal relationship between the two women has not been restored.
Although it was great news for Blake, she hasn’t rekindled her friendship with Taylor yet,
the source said.
Taylor has not been in touch with Blake and still does not want to discuss anything to do with the lawsuit.
Summer 2025 saw Swift drawn back into the dispute when Baldoni’s team requested a deposition, which Swift agreed to in October 2025 under some contention. Swift’s legal team argued that she was compelled to participate. However, the presiding judge ultimately denied Baldoni’s request for additional time to conduct this deposition.
Documentary Honors John Candy’s Legacy
The film John Candy: I Like Me pays tribute to the beloved comedian, reflecting on his impactful career before his untimely death. Ryan Reynolds’ involvement as co-producer shows a commitment to celebrating Candy’s life and work, adding to the significance of the film’s premiere that brought together key cast members and friends paying respects to the enduring legacy of the star.
What Lies Ahead for Reynolds and Lively Amid Legal Uncertainties
Ryan Reynolds’ red carpet appearance, bolstered by Blake Lively’s family showing up in her absence, highlights the personal support network behind the actor during a complex period marked by ongoing legal disputes affecting his spouse. With Blake’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni still pending and scheduled for court in early 2026, the uncertainty remains high for those involved.
The evolving situation between Lively, Baldoni, and Swift adds to the tension surrounding their professional and personal relationships, making forthcoming court proceedings highly anticipated by observers. For Reynolds, maintaining a steady presence amid this turmoil reflects both resilience and the importance of family support on the public stage.
