The blockbuster hit It Ends With Us is raking in cash like it’s found the secret to printing money, and with a sequel book already sitting on shelves, it seems like a no-brainer that a follow-up movie is on the horizon. But—cue suspenseful music—there’s some spicy behind-the-scenes drama bubbling up like a reality TV show reunion.
Now, unless you’ve been living under a rock with no Wi-Fi, you’ve probably heard whispers of a supposed feud between Blake Lively and co-star-slash-director Justin Baldoni. Rumor has it, these two are clashing harder than mismatched socks. Did Blake take the last bagel from craft services? Did Justin refuse to share his director’s chair? The world may never know.
When asked about the possibility of directing the sequel, Justin gave an answer so smooth, it practically slid out of a rom-com: “I think there are better people for that one. I think Blake Lively is ready to direct. That’s what I think.” Translation: “You know what? Let Blake take the wheel. I’ve had enough of the chaos.”
So, what’s the 411? Well, according to TheWrap, Justin and his company, Wayfarer Studios, are still clutching the film rights to It Starts With Us like Gollum with the One Ring. He’s definitely going to be involved in some way—whether that’s as Ryle, the director, or the guy who hands out snacks on set, remains to be seen. But don’t dust off your red carpet outfit just yet, because according to an insider, “no additional conversations have been had at this time regarding the sequel.” Translation: They’re waiting to see if the drama dies down or if Blake and Justin need to settle things in a celebrity boxing match first.
Still, with It Ends With Us pulling in $182 million in just 11 days, it’s pretty clear that Sony Pictures isn’t exactly going to leave this cash cow unfed. The sequel is as inevitable as your Netflix algorithm recommending It Ends With Us as a “10/10 match” (even if you’re secretly more into cat videos).
Stay tuned, because the drama isn’t over, it’s just getting started.
