Blake Lively’s Brother-In-Law Speaks Out Amid ‘It Ends With Us’ Drama

Blake Lively's brother-in-law, Bart Johnson, is suggesting there's more to the story behind the "It Ends With Us" drama.

The 37-year-old actress has faced criticism for not focusing enough on the film’s domestic violence themes in her promotional efforts for the new film based on Colleen Hoover’s 2016 novel. The story follows Lily Bloom (played by Lively) as she navigates an abusive relationship with neurosurgeon Ryle (Justin Baldoni) while reuniting with her childhood sweetheart, Atlas (Brandon Sklenar).

During an interview with BBC News, Blake Lively stated that Lily is “not defined” by her experiences with domestic violence.

What Did Blake Lively Say?

Lively has faced criticism for her responses to questions about the film's domestic violence themes and for her behavior in older interviews that have resurfaced.

“She defines herself, and I think that that’s deeply empowering to remind people that no one else can define you," Lively explained of her character. "No experience can define you. You define you."

In response to the backlash, she has shared domestic violence resources on social media.

Blake Lively's Family Speaks Out

In an Instagram post shared wishing her a happy birthday, Lively's brother-in-law, Bart Johnson, also addressed the "It Ends With Us" drama.

A fan commented on Johnson's post accusing the actress of “promoting happiness in a domestic violence setting without any regard for any victims.”

Johnson quickly came to his sister-in-law's defense, replying, “Ellen, I’m really sorry you feel that way. I’m sure you have a huge heart and want the best. I can promise you the truth has not come out yet. Blake worked harder on this film than anything I’ve seen her do my entire life,” he wrote."

"Because it meant so much to her. The message is in the book. And in the movie," he added. "Not in short clips / interviews. She is the reason the message / this movie/ is getting out.”

Bart Johnson Stands Up For His Sister-In-Law

Johnson, who is married to Lively’s sister Robyn Lively, emphasized that everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect.

“Were mistakes made? Yes. I make mistakes in life. But they aren’t under a microscope. Anyway, I respect your views. I got nothing but love for you,” he added, followed by a red heart emoji.

Following the film's premiere on August 9, Lively used Instagram to share resources for domestic violence with her followers.

“1 in 4 women aged 18 and older in the US alone have been the victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime,” she wrote on social media. “Intimate partner violence affects all genders, including more than 12 million people every year in the United States. Everyone deserves relationships free from domestic violence."

Blake Lively's Sister Robyn Speaks Out

Johnson's wife and Lively's sister, Robyn, also posted a birthday tribute to the actress, calling her "one of the best humans I know."

"I love this girl, my sister, my best friend, my little piggy back buddy!" Robyn said in the Instagram caption. "You are one of the best humans I know. HAPPY birthday sissy britches!"

One fan commented on Robyn's post, seemingly standing up for the 37-year-old. "Blake is a lovely human being!! I hope she knows that the multitudes of people who love her is so much greater than the negative voices," they wrote. "Happy birthday Blake!!"

Robyn saw the comment and responded, "Thank you for this."

Blake Lively Is 'Proud' Of 'It Ends With Us'

Lively also posted the following message on her social media:

"It Ends With Us" has become Lively's highest-grossing film to date, earning over $242 million worldwide since its release on August 9, according to Deadline.

If you or someone you know are experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for support.