Justin Baldoni: I Got 'Out Of The Way' So Blake Lively Could Take Lead On ‘It Ends With Us’

Justin Baldoni is sharing all of the behind-the-scenes details on "It Ends With Us"! The director and actor joined Access Hollywood at Ground Central Coffee Company in New York City to discuss the highly anticipated movie, including what it was like to have Blake Lively as a scene partner and how both he and her got their roles as Ryle and Lily, respectively. Justin also shared his emotional response to reading Colleen Hoover's novel of the same name and the message he hopes viewers take away. Plus, Justin shared how "creative genius" Ryan Reynolds got involved in the project and how Taylor Swift not only lent her song "My Tears Ricochet" to the trailer and gave her nod of approval to the casting of Isabela Ferrer as young Lily. "It Ends With Us" debuts in theaters on Aug. 9.

0:00 - Justin Baldoni joined Access Hollywood to discuss "It Ends With Us"
0:57 - How Justin himself was inspired by the book and Colleen Hoover
3:09 - Nerves and hesitations making this beloved book into a film
3:55 - Justin's first time acting AND directing in a film
5:24 - Justin's reaction the viral Instagram kissing video with Blake Lively
6:45 - Colleen suggesting Justin play Ryle
8:26 - The key to capturing the passion and chemistry with Blake's character
11:17 - Blake and Ryan's children on set
14:14 - Ryan Reynolds writing a scene for the film
15:39 - Casting of a younger Lily in Isabela Ferrer
17:21 - Taylor Swift lending her song for the film
18:15 - How will audiences be inspired by Lily's choices

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"Access Hollywood" is an entertainment news show featuring Mario Lopez, Kit Hoover, Scott Evans, and correspondent Zuri Hall. From exclusive celebrity interviews to breaking news and reality TV drama, we have all the celebrity news you need to know.

[Questiss]

I would totally love to see the Director's cut!

[dianex.]

Thank you Access Hollywood, for giving this Amazing Director the opportunity to speak his vision on the film.

[lengl]

5 mths on, knowing everything that Blake is putting him through and how she put him and his family and friends in the basement at his own premiere, through all of this he has always remained respectful and even complimentary of her. He's a bigger man than I would be for sure. Justice for Justin! ❤

[monicagrindstaff]

I got chills. Justin said it all so eloquently. I’m a survivor.

[genbabez]

Omg he should’ve been front and center of every promo interview bc wow can that man speak so eloquently. Bravo Justin. I’m only watching the movie bc of him.

[michelleasana]

He is phenomenal. What a mature, respectful an intimate human being.

[cyphercritic]

God he’s such a sweetheart to all the women who participated in the project just for quotes to come out in media of the author saying “she never wants to work with him again”. And Blake being so dismissive during promos. Give this man more credit!

[mamique]

Wow, he gets it! You can tell he put his whole heart and soul into the subject matter and wanted to bring a realistic portrayal.

[LuluArdila]

I hate to take a man’s side on drama but just by listening to their tone on interviews, theres such a contrast. This is such a thoughtful caring man. He’s talking so glowingly. And all she’s doing is acting like the queen of mean girls. #teamjustin

[lucianadosanjos]

OMG! This man is a dream. Not only he's gorgeous, but he's conscious, deep and sensitive. I hope he influences more men to be like him ❤

[angiebarclay]

Wow, he spoke so respectfully and so humbly after how they treated him at the premier. Good for him.

[KarlaElaine]

This interview tells us a lot. He speaks eloquently and sincerely about a serious and difficult subject matter. Bake made sarcastic jokes while so called “promoting” the movie. I believe Mr. Baldoni.

[helenvloeberghs]

Such a humble posture of leaning speaks to the calibre of Justin. Some folks mistake meekness for weakness, but on the contrary it is such strength of character.

[Anubhz]

Such a class act. Even though seems like Blake's PR is trying to smear his reputation, he is being very dignified ❤

[cheryltwohig]

You are so humble, Justin.
Blake is a diva. 😢
The truth is everlasting and will prevail.
"Karma has a surprising way of taking care of situations.
All you need to do now is sit back n watch. "
This was a great interview.

[leeperry]

He is just fantastic. New admirer here! First class actor, sensitive director, sounds like a great man .

[lizp]

Finally, a clip that gives Justin Baldoni credit for this movie instead of Blake Lively. It's so sad to watch Lively destroy Baldoni's reputation and ruin his ability to earn a living for his family now. If she's lying, I hope she is forced to pay every cent in Justin's lawsuit and issue a public apology on the front page of the NY Times.

[KatherineF]

He’s the best interview on this movie. He’s so passionate about the message. He went out of his way to purchase this book and bring it to life. Looking at his directing past, you can see he directs about difficult topics he wants to bring light to. I don’t believe the mean girls for a minute. They just want to tap into Blake’s it girl popularity instead of Justin’s depth.

[josegijsbers]

How could they take this away from him, he deserves an Oscar ❤

[Lee-nnt]

I feel so bad for him this is heartbreaking 💔 that he’s crying inside knowing what we all know now. I’m so happy that he has stood up for himself and he will win against the 3 dragons.