Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds and a host of A-list celebrities graced the red carpet for the premiere of "Another Simple Favor" in New York City this past weekend. The event, held on April 27, 2025, marked the launch of the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 film "A Simple Favor." Lively, who stars alongside Anna Kendrick, showcased a stunning mint green caged corset paired with a flowing skirt, while Reynolds opted for a classic gray suit and tie.
The star-studded event attracted numerous high-profile attendees, including Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Hugh Jackman, and Shawn Levy. Lively expressed her gratitude for the cast in a heartfelt Instagram post, stating, "The greatest cast in every way. I know how fortunate I am to know and work with each of these incredible people and artists." The film also features a talented ensemble, including Bashir Salahuddin, Michele Morrone, Alex Newell, Andrew Rannells, Aparna Nancherla, Kelly McCormack, and Henry Golding.
"Another Simple Favor" follows the story of Stephanie Smothers (played by Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (played by Blake Lively) as they reunite on the picturesque island of Capri, Italy, for Emily's extravagant wedding to a wealthy Italian businessman. The film promises a plot filled with twists and turns, as it hints at murder and betrayal amid glamorous wedding festivities. The official synopsis teases, "Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square."
In a light-hearted moment, Kendrick discussed the filming experience during an appearance on "Good Morning America" on April 28, 2025. "I basically feel like Paul Feig, the director, just paid for the most glamorous, expensive vacation of my life. So, I love that for me," she joked, reflecting on the film's stunning Italian backdrop.
While the premiere celebrated the film's launch, it also came at a tumultuous time for Lively, who is currently embroiled in a legal battle with her former director Justin Baldoni. The actress accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and alleged that he initiated a smear campaign against her. Baldoni has firmly denied the accusations and countersued Lively, with the case set to go to trial in March 2026.
Despite the ongoing legal issues, Lively maintained a positive demeanor at the premiere. At the after-party, she sported a striking €6,500 Judith Leiber Couture clutch designed to resemble a Martini glass, reflecting a growing trend among celebrities for bags inspired by food and drink. Notably, Lauren Sánchez, the fiancée of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, recently made headlines for carrying a €5,115 Balenciaga coffee cup handbag.
Reynolds, who was a supportive presence at the event, brought along his friend Hugh Jackman, who posed with Lively for photos. The couple was also joined by fellow actors Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, who showed their support with warm hugs and camaraderie throughout the evening.
As the excitement built around the film's release, fans eagerly awaited its debut on Prime Video, scheduled for May 1, 2025. The film's promotional efforts have already generated significant buzz, positioning it as a must-watch for fans of the original movie and newcomers alike.
In a weekend filled with celebrations, Reynolds also had reason to cheer, as his soccer team Wrexham A.F.C. clinched a historic victory in Wales on April 26, 2025, securing their promotion to the EFL Championship. This victory marked a significant achievement for the team, which has garnered attention since Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney took ownership in 2020.
As the premiere of "Another Simple Favor" came to a close, the evening encapsulated the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, while also highlighting the personal challenges faced by its stars. With a blend of high-profile appearances and underlying tensions, the event served as a reminder of the complexities of fame in today's entertainment landscape.
With the film set to launch on streaming platforms soon, audiences are left wondering how Lively and Kendrick will navigate the twists and turns of their characters' lives on screen, mirroring the real-life drama that has unfolded off-screen.
