Brandon Sklenar, the rising star from “It Ends With Us,” has stepped up to defend Blake Lively and author Colleen Hoover against public criticism.

The actor, who also features in the Paramount+ “Yellowstone” prequel “1923”, responded to the negative feedback aimed at Lively and Hoover, whose popular novel inspired the film adaptation. In a detailed Instagram post on Tuesday, he addressed the ongoing controversy circulating online.

Sklenar stated, “Colleen and the female leads in this film represent hope, resilience, and the power of women making better choices for their lives,” in his social media commentary.

He further explained: “Attacking the women who invested so much passion and effort into this project simply because of their strong beliefs in its purpose feels unproductive and takes away from the film’s true message.”

Since the film’s release on August 9, it has faced various online critiques. Some social media users claim that Hoover has reinforced and encouraged outdated ideas about domestic abuse, while others discuss rumored conflicts between Lively and the movie’s director and co-star Justin Baldoni.

As of now, none of the primary cast members from “It Ends with Us” are following Baldoni on social media. However, Lively is connected to Sklenar, Hoover, and co-star Jenny Slate.

In light of the feud speculation, Baldoni has reportedly brought on a public relations manager skilled in crisis management. According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter and People Magazine, Baldoni has teamed up with Melissa Nathan, whose past clients include Johnny Depp during his widely publicized legal battles.

In his Instagram message, Sklenar expressed that “whatever transpired backstage should not overshadow what we aimed to achieve with this film,” describing the “extensive negativity” online as “disheartening.”

The film centers on Lily Blossom Bloom (played by Lively), a flower shop owner who falls in love with Ryle Kincaid (Baldoni), an attractive neurosurgeon, while also reconnecting with her childhood love, Atlas Corrigan (Sklenar).

Sklenar reassured his followers that “everyone involved in this film was acutely aware of the weight of responsibility we held while creating this.” He stressed this was a duty to the women who have endured generational trauma, domestic violence, or who struggle with self-acceptance.

He continued, emphasizing that “It Ends With Us” is intended to encourage, acknowledge, and validate experiences, instill hope, and promote strength, helping individuals feel less isolated. It also seeks to share love and awareness, without portraying women as villains.

Contributors: Patrick Ryan, Pamela Avila, Edward Segarra