Blake Lively took center stage at the TIME100 Gala on April 24, 2025, where she was honored as one of the most influential people of the year. The event, held at Lincoln Center in New York City, was a significant moment for the actress, especially amidst her ongoing legal battle with her co-star Justin Baldoni.
Before delivering her poignant speech, Lively shared a sweet moment with her husband, Ryan Reynolds. A lip-reading expert, Nicola Hickling, revealed to the Daily Mail that Reynolds allegedly told Lively, "I should be there, I need to shine right now." The couple’s affectionate exchange, which included a kiss, showcased their supportive relationship as Lively prepared to address the audience.
In her speech, Lively, 37, took a moment to reflect on her mother, Willie Elaine McAlpin, who she described as a survivor of a horrific attack by a work acquaintance. "My mom never got justice from her work acquaintance who attempted to take her life when she was the mother of three young kids years before I was born," Lively said, emphasizing the importance of sharing stories to inspire change.
She continued, "It’s an interesting thing to be called influential. It’s most definitely an honor, but what does influence mean? By definition, it’s the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something." Lively stressed the responsibility that comes with influence, urging everyone to consider how they use their voices and the causes they support.
Lively's speech resonated deeply with attendees, particularly as it came during a tumultuous period in her life. She is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with Baldoni, who has denied allegations of sexual harassment and countersued Lively, Reynolds, and their publicist for defamation and extortion in a $400 million lawsuit. The actress filed her suit against Baldoni in December 2024, claiming harassment and retaliation.
Despite the challenges, Lively was recognized not only for her contributions to the entertainment industry but also for her resilience. She expressed gratitude to the women whose stories have inspired her, stating, "Never underestimate a woman’s ability to endure pain. Life’s just a bowl of cherries. Thank you to every woman whose strength brought life to me and my four children, and thank you to every man—including my sweet husband—who are kind and good when no one is watching." This heartfelt acknowledgment of her support system drew applause from the audience.
However, not everyone was pleased with Lively's recognition. Journalist Megyn Kelly criticized the TIME100 honor, suggesting it was a “ploy to get her to attend” the event. Kelly stated, "There’s zero chance that Blake Lively is one of the most influential people in America. She’s one of the most controversial. In fact, she’s managed somehow to alienate half of the country and her fan base by getting involved in what I think is a fake #MeToo situation. And it’s going to be a rough year for Blake." Kelly’s remarks reflect the polarized opinions surrounding Lively's recent legal issues.
In addition to her legal battles, Lively is set to star in the upcoming film Another Simple Favor, a sequel to the 2018 hit, which will begin streaming on Amazon Prime Video on May 1, 2025. As Lively navigates these challenging waters, her recognition by TIME highlights her influence and the complexities of her public persona.
Ryan Reynolds, who has consistently shown his support for Lively, was also a topic of discussion during the gala. He was previously ranked #1 in the National Research Group's survey of movie stars but has since dropped to #5. This decline coincides with the controversies surrounding Lively and their legal challenges. Interestingly, he remains a favorite among Gen Z audiences, ranking #2 in that demographic.
As Lively and Reynolds continue to make headlines, their story serves as a reminder of the intersection of personal struggles and public life. The TIME100 Gala not only celebrated Lively's achievements but also illuminated the ongoing challenges she faces in her career and personal life.
In the wake of the gala, the couple’s bond appears stronger than ever, with Reynolds providing a steady source of encouragement amidst the storm. As they both prepare for their upcoming projects and navigate their legal battles, the support they offer each other will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their journey ahead.
