Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick have once again found themselves at the center of speculation, as rumors of a feud between the co-stars reignite just as they return to promote their latest film, Another Simple Favor. The ongoing narrative, which first began in 2017 during production of their original movie, has captured the attention of audiences, leaving many wondering if there is any truth behind the headlines, or if it’s simply a side effect of Hollywood buzz surrounding the highly anticipated sequel.
The speculation began years ago and intensified during their original promotional tours, where Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick were sometimes seen joking and appearing friendly, but at other moments, throwing subtle jabs in interviews. The uncertainty surrounding their off-screen relationship only grew with each public appearance, prompting director Paul Feig to make public statements in an attempt to calm growing rumors. Despite these reassurances, the conversation around their alleged rift has not faded, especially as the sequel draws new attention to their dynamic.
With the premiere of Another Simple Favor, the rumor mill gained new fuel after Anna Kendrick reportedly sidestepped a question about working with Blake Lively at the SXSW premiere. In March 2025, YouTuber Melanie King tweeted,
The claim was quickly addressed by director Paul Feig, who denied its accuracy and criticized the spread of misinformation. Nevertheless, the exchange reignited public debate about the actresses’ working relationship.
Throughout the years, both stars have engaged in playful banter that has led fans to speculate about unresolved tensions. Anna Kendrick, known for her candid humor, once revealed that she muted Blake Lively on social media, and on another occasion joked that Lively was nice before they actually began working together. Such comments, while often taken as lighthearted, have sometimes been interpreted as hints of real friction, stirring discussion among fans and followers online.
Despite these rumors, both actresses have publicly expressed appreciation for working with each other, seemingly undermining the narrative of an actual feud. Blake Lively stated to Entertainment Tonight that returning to collaborate with Anna Kendrick was the best. Likewise, Kendrick shared with People magazine that reuniting with Lively was lovely. These remarks, paired with their consistent professionalism in interviews, suggest a relationship rooted more in mutual respect than rivalry, even as their characters in the film remain rivals onscreen.
Amid the attention swirling around Another Simple Favor, Blake Lively also faced controversy involving It Ends With Us director Justin Baldoni. Given the potential impact of this issue on the film’s reception, Kendrick was asked by Variety for her perspective. She sidestepped the topic entirely, replying,
With this statement, Kendrick made it clear she did not wish to participate in speculation about Lively’s other professional conflicts, while maintaining focus on their work together for the sequel.
The resurgence of this rumored dispute highlights the public’s fascination with Hollywood dynamics, particularly when built upon years of rumor, playful jibes, and carefully worded press interactions. Although controversy has accompanied Blake Lively throughout much of this film’s rollout, there has been little concrete evidence that the supposed feud with Anna Kendrick is anything more than exaggerated speculation or clever marketing meant to amplify interest in their onscreen rivalry.
As Another Simple Favor becomes available to viewers, the impact of the ongoing Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick rumors remains to be seen. The way their professional rapport translates to the sequel may influence how audiences interpret their off-screen relationship, while any future public comments could clarify, or further complicate, speculation. For now, the situation underscores how high-profile projects can blur the line between promotion and personal life, leaving even the most factual reports tinged with a sense of uncertainty and intrigue.
