Actress Blake Lively is facing criticism for her response to a serious question about domestic violence during a recent interview promoting her new film "It Ends With Us."

According to the Daily Mail, Lively's sarcastic reaction to a question about connecting with viewers who relate to the film's subject matter has left many fans appalled.

The 36-year-old star sat down for a virtual chat with Emmy award-winning reporter Jake Hamilton alongside her costar Brandon Sklenar to discuss the movie, which deals with themes of abuse in relationships.

During the interview, Hamilton asked Lively how she would recommend people who have personally experienced domestic violence approach her to discuss the movie's themes if they encountered her in public.

Rather than providing resources or encouraging victims to seek professional help, Lively laughed and sarcastically suggested they ask for her address or phone number. Her flippant response to the sensitive topic has sparked outrage online, with many criticizing the actress for making light of such a serious issue.

Controversy Surrounding Lively's Interview Response

The controversy stems from Lively's apparent dismissal of the interviewer's question about connecting with domestic violence survivors. When asked how she would handle fans wanting to discuss the film's themes with her personally, Lively jokingly replied:

Ask for my address or my phone number. Or I could just share my location with you and then we could...

Her sarcastic tone and laughter following the comment left many viewers shocked at her seemingly callous attitude toward such a weighty topic. Critics argue that as the star of a film dealing with relationship abuse, Lively should have been more prepared to address the issue sensitively.

Some defenders of Lively suggest the actress may have been caught off guard by the question or felt uncomfortable with the idea of strangers approaching her to discuss their trauma. However, many still feel she missed an opportunity to provide helpful information or direct people to appropriate resources.

Broader Criticism Of Film's Promotion

The backlash over Lively's interview comments is part of wider criticism surrounding the promotion of "It Ends With Us." Some fans have expressed disappointment that the film's marketing seems to downplay its serious subject matter in favor of more lighthearted content.

A previous promotional interview hosted by Lively with her costars was also called out for failing to address the movie's themes of domestic violence. Instead, the actresses discussed lighter topics like zodiac signs and dream jobs, leaving many viewers frustrated by the lack of substantive discussion about the film's central issues.

In response to the criticism, Lively later shared domestic violence resources and statistics on her social media. However, some feel this was too little too late after the actress failed to properly address the topic when given the opportunity during interviews.

Rumors Of On-Set Tension With Costar

Adding to the controversy surrounding the film are rumors of behind-the-scenes tension between Lively and her costar Justin Baldoni, who also directed the movie. Sources claim the two clashed over Baldoni's approach to scenes depicting abuse, with Lively allegedly feeling he focused too heavily on the male perspective.

There has been speculation about a falling out between the costars, fueled by observations that they have not done press together to promote the film. Some eagle-eyed fans also noticed Lively and the book's author, Colleen Hoover, recently unfollowed Baldoni on social media.

While the full details of any potential on-set conflicts remain unclear, the rumors have only intensified scrutiny of the film's rollout and handling of its sensitive subject matter.

Why This Story Matters

This story is a sobering reminder of the profound impact words can have, particularly when dealing with delicate topics like domestic violence. It underscores the responsibility individuals, especially those in the limelight, carry in shaping public dialogue and potentially influencing societal attitudes toward sensitive issues.

Moreover, it draws attention to the power of social media as a dual-edged sword that can amplify voices and intensify public scrutiny and criticism. The event serves as a critical lesson in public communications, emphasizing that how subjects are discussed is as important as the discussion itself.

In conclusion, Blake Lively's sarcastic response to a question about connecting with domestic violence survivors has sparked significant backlash online. Many viewers felt her flippant attitude was inappropriate given the serious themes of her new film "It Ends With Us."

The controversy is part of broader criticism surrounding the movie's promotion, which some feel has not adequately addressed its depiction of relationship abuse. Rumors of tension between Lively and her costar/director, Justin Baldoni, have further complicated the film's rollout.