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Feud Allegations Swirl Around Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick Amidst ‘Another Simple Favor’ Sequel Promotion
Rumors of a potential rift between Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, co-stars of the upcoming ‘Another Simple Favor’ sequel, are intensifying after fans noticed a perceived slight in a recent promotional image. Observant viewers scrutinized the newly released Amazon Prime Video poster and highlighted the positioning of the actresses’ names, fueling speculation of an underlying conflict.
Poster Name Placement Sparks Debate
On Monday, Amazon Prime Video shared the official poster for ‘Another Simple Favor’ on Instagram. Keen-eyed fans quickly pointed out that Blake Lively’s name appeared higher than Anna Kendrick’s on the image. This detail ignited a flurry of comments, with many interpreting it as further evidence of a rumored feud between the actresses.
- One popular comment questioned the name hierarchy, asking, “Why is Blake Lively’s name higher than Anna Kendrick’s again??”
- This observation prompted discussions about potential favoritism or deliberate placement, given the existing speculation of tension between the co-stars.
Husband’s Involvement Speculated
Some online commentators speculated that Blake Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, might have influenced the poster’s design, particularly in light of Lively’s ongoing legal issues with her ‘It Ends With Us’ co-star, Justin Baldoni.
- Suggestions were made that Reynolds’ influence could be behind Lively’s name placement.
- One comment stated, “She probably did her ways having her husband involved for that,” while another succinctly added, “Ryan decided that.”
Fan Reactions: Support Divided
The online discourse surrounding the poster also revealed divided fan loyalties. Many expressed support for Anna Kendrick, while simultaneously criticizing Blake Lively.
- One commenter encouraged Kendrick to pursue independent projects, stating, “Anna get out of there. Go direct another movie on your own… Before she gets you.”
- Conversely, fans of the original film voiced their excitement for the sequel, with one writing, “this is going to be incredible omg.”
Earlier SXSW Film Festival Distance
This poster controversy follows prior observations of distance between Lively and Kendrick during promotions for ‘Another Simple Favor’ at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin, just a month prior.
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- During the festival’s cast photo sessions, Lively and Kendrick were notably not positioned near each other.
- At a March 7th screening, subtle indications of tension were also perceived, further fueling feud rumors.
Red Carpet Interactions at SXSW
Further examination of group photos from the SXSW festival revealed deliberate spacing between Lively and Kendrick. For instance, in one photo, Michele Morrone and director Paul Feig stood between them, despite both actresses smiling for the cameras.
Other co-stars present at these events included Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Elizabeth Perkins, and Alex Newell.
Fashion Choices at SXSW
Both actresses showcased distinct fashion choices during the SXSW promotional events.
- Lively sported peach-colored trousers with silver embellishments, paired with a matching long coat, a plain white shirt, shimmering heels, and a martini-shaped purse.
- Kendrick opted for a chic sleeveless snakeskin dress cinched with a black belt, complemented by black open-toed heels with straps.
‘Another Simple Favor’ Sequel Details
Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick are reuniting for the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 film, ‘A Simple Favor’. ‘Another Simple Favor’ is scheduled for release on May 1st.
The film’s premise, according to IMDB, centers on “Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman.”
Kendrick’s Ambiguous Response and Lively’s Legal Battle
Adding to the speculation, Anna Kendrick offered a seemingly evasive response when questioned about the movie being affected by “everything going on in the world” during a red carpet interview with Variety. This occurred shortly after Lively’s ongoing legal dispute with Justin Baldoni became public.
Blake Lively is currently embroiled in a publicized legal battle with Justin Baldoni, stemming from allegations of sexual assault and a smear campaign. Reports also surfaced indicating Kendrick’s frustration that the lawsuit is overshadowing the upcoming sequel.
Kendrick’s response to Variety included a joke referencing ayahuasca and a lost year, followed by stating, “But I’ve heard the movie is amazing,” before ending the interview.
Director’s Perspective and Awkward On-Stage Dynamic
Despite the rumored tensions, director Paul Feig has publicly praised both actresses. He described working with Lively and Kendrick again as “too much fun” and highlighted their collaborative input during production.
However, awkwardness between Lively and Kendrick was noticeable during joint appearances, including an onstage discussion of the movie at the premiere. In a video shared by Variety, Lively speaks about ‘Another Simple Favor’, with Kendrick appearing to only briefly glance at her co-star.
Feud Origins and Press Strategy
The rumored feud is reportedly linked to Anna Kendrick’s displeasure with Blake Lively’s legal issues overshadowing ‘Another Simple Favor’. Concerns about negative fan reactions due to the controversy have also been reported.
A source indicated to People that Kendrick is “upset” by negative Instagram comments and fan pledges to boycott the movie in support of Lively’s accuser.
Conversely, another insider suggested that joint promotional efforts are still planned: “The film is in the early stages of planning what press will look like, and Blake and Anna will be doing some things together.”
Divergent On-Camera Interactions with Fans
Contrasting interactions with fans further fueled the feud narrative. A video circulating on X captured Anna Kendrick giving a curt, ambiguous response when asked about working with Lively again. In a separate video, Blake Lively offered an effusive and positive answer to a similar question, stating, “Oh, it’s the best! I’m so happy.”
Billing Disputes and Underlying Tensions
Sources suggest deeper issues contributing to the alleged rift, including disagreements over billing in the sequel and Lively’s perceived silence regarding the lawsuit’s impact on the film.
A DailyMail.com source stated that ‘Another Simple Favor’ movies represent the primary common ground between the actresses, describing their relationship as “a working relationship, by no means a close friendship or bond.”
Reportedly, Anna Kendrick prefers to distance herself from Blake Lively going forward, potentially impacting joint promotional activities. It’s suggested that initial plans for extensive joint promotion are under review due to Kendrick’s concerns.
Disputes over top billing are also reported as a point of contention, with Blake Lively allegedly pushing for top billing, leading to a “staggered billing” compromise after negotiations.
According to an insider, Lively’s handling of her legal situation and perceived lack of apology to the cast for potential negative impacts on the film have exacerbated tensions. The source stated, “She owes Anna an apology. She owes them all an apology,” suggesting a significant underlying rift between the co-stars.