Ryan Reynolds Critiques Hollywood's Double Standards for Women

At the National Board of Review Awards on January 7, 2025, Ryan Reynolds presented the Best Film award to 'Wicked', using the opportunity to address the unfair standards imposed on women in the film industry. He emphasized that stories about women are often held to higher expectations, stating, 'You must be perfect. You must hide your strength.' His comments came amid his wife Blake Lively's ongoing legal battle against 'It Ends With Us' director Justin Baldoni, who she accuses of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. Reynolds praised Universal Pictures for their trust in the film's vision, highlighting the significance of centering powerful female narratives. Additionally, WME denied allegations from Baldoni's countersuit that the couple pressured the agency to sever ties with him. Lively's lawsuit and Baldoni's subsequent countersuit have drawn significant media attention, revealing deeper issues of sexism and workplace misconduct within Hollywood.