"I can promise you the truth has not come out yet"

The speculation intensified when Baldoni, who also directed the film, was largely absent from group events with the cast, fuelling talk of a rift.

There has also been vast amounts of criticism aimed at Lively for how she is promoting the film. Many have deemed it inappropriate, considering the contents of the movie.

In the midst of all these allegations, Bart Johnson, Lively’s brother-in-law, responded to criticism of her involvement in the project. 

A commenter had accused Blake of "promoting happiness in a domestic violence setting without any regard for any victims".

In response, Johnson wrote: “I’m really sorry you feel that way. I’m sure you have a huge heart and want the best. 

“I can promise you the truth has not come out yet. Blake worked harder on this film than anything I’ve seen her do my entire life. Because it meant so much to her.”

He continued: “The message is in the book. And in the movie. Not in short clips/interviews. She is the reason the message / this movie is getting out. 

“Were mistakes made? Yes. I make mistakes in life. But they aren’t under a microscope. Anyway, I respect your views. I got nothing but love for you.”

Meanwhile, a source told PEOPLE that "all is not what it seems," adding, “There is much more to this story. The principal cast and author Colleen Hoover will have nothing to do with him [Baldoni].”

Fans also noted that Baldoni, who starred in and directed the film, didn’t join Lively and other cast members for group photos at the premiere. 

Some fans even speculated that Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, were overly involved in the film’s production, possibly causing tension with Baldoni. 

Lively, an executive producer, recently revealed that Reynolds wrote a scene for the movie, which screenwriter Christy Hall was not aware of until she saw the final cut.

Despite the rumours, Baldoni praised Lively’s contributions to the film, saying: “You can’t summarise Blake’s contribution in a sentence, because her energy and imprint is all over the movie and really, really made the film better, from beginning to end.” 

He also expressed his gratitude to Reynolds and said he would gladly work with the couple again “if they’d have me.”

While questions remain about the behind-the-scenes dynamics of It Ends with Us, Johnson’s defence of Lively has suggested there is more to the story than meets the eye.

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