Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
Blake Lively was honored as a ‘Titan’ on the TIME100 list, even as she remains involved in a sexual harassment lawsuit against her It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni.
On Wednesday, Blake Lively was named a “Titan” on the TIME100 list of the most influential individuals, a recognition that stirred controversy online due to her ongoing legal battle with It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni. Many social media users voiced frustration over the timing of the honor.
The conflict between Lively and Baldoni has escalated into a legal standoff, with both stars filing lawsuits against each other. Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment during the filming of their upcoming movie, an allegation Baldoni has firmly denied.
Amid the intensifying legal dispute, Lively still received high praise in her TIME100 profile, which was penned by civil rights leader Sherrilyn Ifill.
“I don’t know Blake Lively from red carpets or fashion events, and I’ve never watched Gossip Girl,” Ifill wrote. “What I do know is a philanthropist and someone deeply engaged in understanding America’s toughest challenges.”
Ifill recalled how Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds first contacted the NAACP Legal Defense Fund back in 2019 to offer their support. “I’m always interested in the amount of homework celebrities do before reaching out to support causes,” she continued. “Those I’ve stayed connected with are people like Blake—who truly took the time to understand what we do.”
Sherrilyn Ifill, former president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, reflected on her early interactions with Blake Lively, offering insight into the actress’s lesser-known side.
“What struck me right away was her genuine curiosity and dedication to understanding the deeper issues shaping this country,” Ifill shared. “I remember an early conversation where she expressed frustration that much of America’s true history had been left out of her education. What impressed me most was her drive to learn and become a fully informed citizen. Blake is thoughtful, bold, and truly committed to helping create a better future—for her own children and for mine.”
Despite the glowing endorsement, Lively’s recognition on the TIME100 list was met with skepticism online. Critics took to social media to question the decision, with some accusing it of being a calculated move by her publicity team.
“Blake Lively?!?! What did her PR team pay to get her on that list?” one user posted.
Another critic referenced a past controversy involving Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds: “She probably donated to the NAACP in 2019 after people found out they got married on a plantation…”
Critics on social media didn’t hold back after Blake Lively’s inclusion in TIME’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential People under the “Titans” category, with some users calling the decision “a joke.”
“So Time magazine just turned their list into a complete farce,” one person wrote. “Blake Lively? If a known bully and false accuser is now considered ‘influential,’ you really have to ask—how much does it cost to buy that title?”
Another critic added, “Having Blake Lively on the list is an insult to the other honorees who’ve genuinely earned their place.”
Still, not everyone was critical. Supporters praised Lively’s inclusion, citing her philanthropic efforts and social advocacy. One fan simply celebrated, writing, “Another Blake Lively win.”
A more detailed post defended the recognition: “Blake Lively’s spot on TIME’s 2025 list, especially as a ‘Titan,’ is absolutely justified. Sherrilyn Ifill highlighted her as a thoughtful philanthropist and active learner deeply engaged in the fight for social progress. Her $2 million donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund in 2019 is just one part of a broader, meaningful commitment.”
Fox News Digital reported that it reached out to Lively’s team for comment on the TIME100 feature.
