Blake Lively Regrets Plantation Wedding, Responds to Backlash in Baldoni Deposition
Blake Lively has openly addressed the backlash regarding her wedding venue choice during a recent deposition. The actress, known for her role in *Gossip Girl*, was questioned about her marriage to Ryan Reynolds at Boone Hall, a former plantation in South Carolina. This choice has drawn significant criticism, particularly during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020.
Controversial Wedding Venue
Blake and Ryan were married at Boone Hall in September 2012. However, it wasn’t until years later that the venue’s historical significance sparked public outrage. The couple made headlines in August 2020 when they announced a $200,000 donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund as an apology for their choice of location.
Deposition Details
During her deposition with Justin Baldoni’s lawyer, Blake was asked if negative press affected her. She noted, “I’m used to it after this many years in the industry.” The lawyer highlighted the timing of their wedding coinciding with the Black Lives Matter movement, prompting Blake to clarify that she was not married during that period of heightened racial awareness.
Accountability and Reflection
Blake admitted that the backlash was justified, stating, “It’s a mistake we have publicly acknowledged and done a lot of work to reconcile.” She expressed that both she and Ryan take full responsibility for their decision.
- Wedding Date: September 2012
- Donation: $200,000 to NAACP Legal Defense Fund
- Venue: Boone Hall, a former slave plantation
- Public Response: Couples issued apology during 2020 Black Lives Matter movement
Ryan Reynolds’ Reflections
Ryan Reynolds also commented on the situation in 2020, expressing deep regret over their choice of venue. He stated that what once seemed like a beautiful location later represented a place of significant tragedy. Ryan reflected on the importance of learning from their mistakes, saying, “A giant mistake like that can either cause you to shut down or it can reframe things and move you into action.”
Recent Developments
In the latest developments, texts between Blake and her friend Taylor Swift were unsealed in court documents, causing a stir online. These interactions further illustrate Blake’s experience as a public figure navigating personal and professional challenges.
In the aftermath of their controversial wedding venue choice, Blake and Ryan continue to engage with their past to foster deeper understanding and change.