What Does a Crisis-Management Expert Make of the It Ends With Us Drama?

As a seasoned cinephile who has witnessed the highs and lows of Hollywood, I can’t help but feel a sense of dismay at the unfolding drama surrounding Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. The intrigue that has gripped fans is reminiscent of a captivating plotline in a soap opera – albeit one that threatens to overshadow the very film they were supposed to promote.


As a passionate movie enthusiast, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the unexpected turn of events surrounding the recent blockbuster hit, “It Ends With Us.” This gripping adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s beloved novel about a survivor of domestic violence astonishingly dethroned the formidable duo of Deadpool and Wolverine to claim the No. 1 spot at the box office, amassing an impressive $100 million worldwide in its debut week.

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve been following the buzz surrounding the supposed rift between key cast members of our recent production. The whispers started swirling after I, the director and producer alongside Wayfarer Studios, was conspicuously absent from group shots at the New York premiere on August 6th. Instead, I opted to watch the film in a different theater that evening and didn’t join Blake Lively and Aaron Hoover for the introduction. Throughout the press tour, I also steered clear of joint or group interviews and promotional events.

Instead of asking Holly Baird directly, we reached out to her as a crisis management advisor to provide us with insights on the complicated issue at hand.

What might a crisis management team be currently focusing on for Justin Baldoni? They would likely investigate the facts — reach out to production, understand what truly transpired, and then assess whether there’s an actual concern for their client or if it’s merely a case of production mismanagement. I believe many of the issues that surfaced during the Weinstein era could have been handled more effectively if there was someone on set available for both actors and staff to confide in.

“Why do you believe an actor employs a crisis manager initially? It’s likely to deal with potential issues before they escalate, such as handling rumors or allegations. For instance, the report of him kissing someone for an extended period of time raised eyebrows. There can often be truth to scandals, but sometimes it’s just internet gossip.”

To provide the best guidance, I’d first need to understand the context at hand. Regardless, it’s crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective and keep your focus on our shared objective: creating a top-quality production. Avoid any instances of spreading rumors or gossip on set as it can negatively impact the project.

I wouldn’t offer specific advice, as I’m on “Team” Blake, but let me share some general thoughts: Honesty is crucial. Acknowledge the issue, make the necessary corrections, and strive to improve. Everyone has off days, but it’s how you handle them that truly reveals your character. This production was a unique learning experience for everyone involved, offering plenty of opportunities for growth and enhancement.

Given that the movie’s plot revolves around domestic violence, are you concerned that any controversy surrounding the film’s production might undermine its message?

Absolutely. In any setting, such as a film production or a university, individuals are now more vigilant and proactive in addressing any inappropriate behavior early on, as they strive to avoid becoming the next focus of negative attention.

In the world of Hollywood, it’s uncommon for co-stars to find themselves in such predicaments that necessitate a crisis management team. Given this unusual situation, I’m quite intrigued but also cautious about drawing immediate conclusions. When actors are placed in delicate situations, it’s the responsibility of the industry and production teams to ensure their cast members are safeguarded. It’s puzzling why Melissa’s name surfaced so early on, as the entire story hasn’t been fully disclosed yet. Perhaps she’s trying to gain attention, or someone is sending Justin a message: “We’re watching you closely, and your time may be running out.”

As a crisis management expert, my mornings often start at 5:30 a.m., peeking at my phone to ensure global stability or if any unexpected chaos has hit my clients’ domains. After a brief moment to collect myself and regroup, I dive headfirst into the challenges that await. Occasionally, I relish the opportunity for time off, as during crisis moments, it’s all about teamwork and full commitment.

If a client requires media coverage for something, I’ll scan through my contact list of media outlets, selecting those I believe would best fit this story. Then, I’ll verify online if anyone has already covered it. Additionally, we discuss other potential stories and, honestly, make sure to check on their well-being as we’re not just professionals but also caring individuals.

How busy are crisis management professionals in Hollywood at the moment? With summer upon us and holidays around the corner, there seems to be an increase in people attempting to keep a low profile, following the Diddy incident. When the initial news about Diddy surfaced, there was a flurry of calls to crisis managers and lawyers, but now things have calmed down. Everyone is simply waiting to see who will make the next headline.

Could you share an approach you employed in a recent case where we were facing off against a well-known figure? When dealing with someone who is adored and often perceived as infallible, it can be challenging to bring their story to light. However, it’s not just about standing up for the giants; sometimes, the underdogs need advocacy as well.

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2024-08-16 22:54