Hollywood is no stranger to behind-the-scenes drama, but Blake Lively’s latest misstep is downright embarrassing.
In what appears to be a failed power move, Lively reportedly attempted to push Anna Kendrick out of the picture—only to find herself forced into an awkward reunion with the very actress she tried to replace.
Now, instead of basking in her supposed victory, she’s left dealing with the fallout of a plan that backfired spectacularly.
Lively and Kendrick first shared the screen in A Simple Favor, a film that saw both actresses deliver compelling performances. However, while the duo played well off each other on-screen, things behind the scenes may not have been as harmonious as they seemed.
Rumors have swirled for years that Lively was not too keen on sharing the spotlight with Kendrick. Whether it was professional rivalry or personal dislike, something was brewing beneath the surface.
So when talks of a Simple Favor sequel began, speculation arose that Lively was angling to edge Kendrick out, perhaps in hopes of making the project her own.
But as fate would have it, Hollywood wasn’t on board with her plan. Rather than securing a solo spotlight, Lively was forced to reunite with Kendrick—a scenario that couldn’t be more uncomfortable given the rumored bad blood between them.
Some industry insiders believe Lively wanted to establish herself as the dominant force in the A Simple Favor franchise, seeing Kendrick as a dispensable co-star.
Lively, whose career has never quite reached A-list status despite her best efforts, may have seen this as her moment to take full control.
Unlike Kendrick, who has built a strong reputation for her versatility and talent across multiple genres, Lively has struggled to break out beyond her Gossip Girl fame. Despite starring in a few well-received projects, she has often been overshadowed by stronger performers.
Perhaps she thought pushing Kendrick out of the sequel would solidify her position as a leading actress rather than just a glamorous on-screen presence.
Unfortunately for Lively, the industry didn’t see things her way. Whether it was studio executives recognizing Kendrick’s undeniable star power or audiences demanding the return of both actresses, Lively’s alleged attempt to go solo was ultimately a failure.
Now, Lively and Kendrick find themselves in a painfully awkward situation. After what was likely an attempt to exclude Kendrick from the sequel, Lively has no choice but to work alongside her once again.
The tension is palpable, and fans are already speculating about how the dynamic will play out.
Will the two actresses pretend to be best friends for the cameras, or will there be subtle digs and passive-aggressive interactions throughout the press tour? Only time will tell.
However, one thing is certain—Lively is now stuck with the very person she allegedly tried to erase from the narrative.
This entire fiasco doesn’t do Lively any favors. Hollywood is full of power plays, but when one fails as spectacularly as this, it only makes the person behind it look desperate.
Instead of being seen as a confident and secure actress, Lively now appears as someone willing to scheme behind the scenes—only to be forced into an uncomfortable situation when her plan flops.
The failed attempt to replace Kendrick only highlights her insecurities rather than her star power.
Meanwhile, Kendrick comes out of this situation looking stronger than ever. Not only did she hold her ground, but she also proved that she’s indispensable to the project.
The very fact that she couldn’t be replaced speaks volumes about her talent and appeal.
Now that the sequel is officially moving forward with both actresses, all eyes will be on how Lively handles the fallout.
Will she try to mend fences and play nice with Kendrick? Or will the tension behind the scenes become even more obvious?
Regardless, one thing is clear—Blake Lively’s attempt to take control of A Simple Favor has failed, and she now has no choice but to face the consequences.
Instead of basking in the success of a solo career move, she’s been forced to retreat, stuck alongside the very actress she tried to replace.
In Hollywood, power plays don’t always go as planned. And in Lively’s case, this one was nothing short of a humiliating miscalculation.
