Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively: Navigating Negative Online Attention

As Blake Lively readies for her next film amid her legal issues, Anna Kendrick faces challenges, PEOPLE reported. The upcoming sequel, "Another Simple Favor," will premiere at the SXSW festival in Austin, Texas, on March 7 and stream on Prime Video beginning May 1.

When the film's first poster was shared on Instagram on February 4, comments quickly mentioned Lively’s legal confrontation. These discussions included criticisms regarding Lively’s name placement on the poster compared to Kendrick's. A source informed PEOPLE that Kendrick is feeling troubled by the situation.

At 39, Kendrick is "not used to being caught up in any drama." The comments particularly upset her, especially those claiming that fans would avoid the movie to not support Lively.

In "Another Simple Favor," Kendrick and Lively portray Stephanie and Emily, who have a complicated friendship. Despite resurfaced comments from their past interviews suggesting tension, another source emphasized that "there really is no drama or rift" between the actresses.

One insider stated, "There is no feud. The film's promotional efforts are in the early stages. Blake and Anna will be working together on aspects of this."

Representatives for the stars haven't commented on the current situation. In spring 2024, the actresses filmed the sequel in Italy while Lively was involved in post-production for "It Ends With Us." The ensemble cast includes notable names like Andrew Rannells and Elizabeth Perkins.

Kendrick expressed appreciation for reuniting with Lively during her promotional activities for her directorial debut, "Woman of the Hour." In October 2024, Kendrick remarked, "It was lovely. We don't see each other often due to our living arrangements, but working together was fantastic."

Paul Feig, the director of "Another Simple Favor," has publicly defended Lively throughout her legal troubles. He reassured fans on Instagram, stating that Lively has been incredibly supportive. Feig further communicated his excitement for the film, highlighting Kendrick and Lively's remarkable performances in January.

As both actresses prepare for "Another Simple Favor," the buzz around them seems to blend challenge and creativity.

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