The constant stream of new celebrity scandals is widespread on social media platforms, of which the youth consume in mass. Evidently, the dynamic between young people and celebrity scandals is a complicated one.
As of early 2025, Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively have been a trending conversation in the ways of Hollywood scandals. To summarize the current situation, as presented through pop culture outlets of varying credibilities, Blake claimed to have been mistreated on the set of It Ends With Us. Specifically, Blake claimed co-actor Justin Baldoni and the production company, Wayfair, body shamed her and acted inappropriately on set. Justin counters these claims in a separate legal document where he provides more robust evidence that it was all blown out of proportion and sues the New York Times for 250 million dollars for defamation.
“I’ve heard that there was inappropriate behavior by Justin Baldoni,” junior Anika Badatala said. “Although people can be quick to judge stars and influencers based on their opinions and the small amount of knowledge they have, sometimes public outrage can shine a light on important issues such as sexual assault that need to be addressed.”
Whilst this legal battle was being dealt with in court, numerous other factors contributed to the overall It Ends With Us headlining. Blake was “canceled” back in mid-2024 when the movie was premiering because she used it as a promotional campaign for her new businesses whilst Justin was advocating for domestic abuse survivors, which was meant to be the actual message of the movie.
“The public’s reaction to serious accusations like sexual assault is inappropriate because the internet takes that accusation and makes jokes out of it,” junior Arushi Raghavendra said. “It is demeaning to someone’s trauma and turns it into a laughing matter.”
In high schools, celebrity scandal discussions are frequent, as it is natural to be curious and nosy about those you don’t know. The current culture of social media makes access to drama easier than ever, providing everyone with immediate updates as soon as a legal battle is won or a new piece of evidence is uncovered. Unknowingly, high school students can be overtaken by the sort of characters they treat influencers and celebrities like, and it can impact the way they think of themselves and the people around them.
“I keep up with pop culture to a certain extent, meaning I read some posts on social media, mainly as a means to make conversation with my friends,” junior Charlotte Long said. “ I saw information about it on social media, mainly on Instagram.”
Although Blake and Justin’s legal case is ongoing as they have a court trial scheduled for Mar. 2026, it is important to recognize there are PR teams, managers and other behind-the-scenes outlets whose main goal is to get the public to pay attention to these stars.
“People don’t always have the full story before reacting to accusations,” Badatala said. “On the other hand, more people sharing their opinions brings attention to things that need to be talked about.”
Photo Courtesy Kara Lyle
It Ends With Us is now available exclusively on Netflix. It has been streaming on Netflix since early December 2024, around the same time Lively and Baldoni’s ongoing legal battle became public.
Photo Courtesy Instagram
Many Instagram accounts are reporting on the Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni controversy. The varying stances and claims have been confusing for consumers.
Photo Courtesy Kara Lyle
High schoolers are constantly scrolling through social media platforms, looking at different alleged news sources. Oftentimes those news sources have headlining clickbait to get the attention of young adults.
