In a recent public appearance, Megyn Kelly expressed strong criticism towards Blake Lively, who was featured on Time100’s list of the most influential people for the year. This backlash came during an interview on the red carpet at the Time100 gala held in New York City on April 24, 2025, as reported by Page Six.
While addressing the media, Kelly brought attention to Lively’s ongoing legal disputes with Justin Baldoni, which have been ongoing since December 2024. According to Kelly, the allegations Lively made against Baldoni are “falling apart,”which contributed to her disapproval of Lively’s recognition by Time100.
Critique of Blake Lively’s Influence
Kelly labeled Lively’s inclusion in the Time100 list as a “ridiculous joke,” stating:
“She shouldn’t be here. She has no influence over anything.”
Kelly further characterized Lively’s selection as “a scandal,”criticizing Time for honoring Lively amidst her contentious relationship with Baldoni. She remarked:
“Obviously, [Time is] looking for big stars to come here and generate pages on their magazines, but that was very wrong.”
In a lighter vein, Kelly humorously expressed her desire for a photo opportunity with both Blake Lively and Meghan Markle, asserting that their appearances provide great content for her show. She noted a possible cold shoulder from Lively, saying:
“I have a feeling [Lively is] going to be avoiding me. I won’t be avoiding anybody. I’m good.”
As of now, Lively has not publicly addressed Kelly’s remarks regarding her presence at the Time100 gala.
A Star-Studded Time100 Gala
Blake Lively turned heads with her appearance at the Time100 gala, accompanied by her husband, Ryan Reynolds, and her mother, Elaine. While Elaine stunned in a sparkling ensemble, Reynolds chose a classic black suit paired with a bow tie. Lively herself arrived in an elegant off-the-shoulder gown, accessorized with eye-catching jewelry.
Time100 unveiled its list of influential figures earlier this month, featuring a mix of prominent personalities, including Mark Zuckerberg, Ed Sheeran, and Scarlett Johansson. Despite the criticisms voiced by Kelly, social media exploded with diverse reactions about Lively’s selection, signaling a divide in public opinion.
In contrast to the surrounding controversy, Blake Lively took to Instagram on April 17, 2025, to express her excitement over the recognition, sending a message to her followers. Ifill, a colleague, praised Lively’s diligence and authenticity regarding her advocacy work:
“I’m always curious about the kind of research famous people do before they make that cold call to offer their support. The ones I have remained in relationship with are those who, like Blake, really did their homework. I admired immediately her curiosity, and her sincere work to understand the conditions that shape the country.”
As the dust settles from the gala, Jively is also gearing up for the release of her upcoming film, Another Simple Favor, which will be available on Amazon Prime Video starting May 1, 2025. The film features Anna Kendrick in a prominent role, adding to Lively’s dynamic career in the entertainment industry.