Jana Kramer critiques Blake Lively’s film on domestic violence, Aug. 9

Jana Kramer, a survivor of domestic violence, criticized the promotion of Blake Lively's film 'It Ends With Us,' which premiered on August 9. During an episode of her podcast, Kramer expressed her disappointment with the film's messaging, emphasizing the importance of addressing domestic violence rather than focusing on other aspects of the film. She specifically took issue with Lively's comment that domestic violence does not define her character, Lily, arguing that such statements can be harmful and dismissive of the experiences of survivors. Kramer shared her own experiences with domestic violence, having been married to Michael Gambino, who was convicted of attempted murder after a violent incident. She stated that domestic violence has significantly shaped her identity and life, countering the notion that it does not define a person. Kramer believes that acknowledging the impact of domestic violence is crucial for healing and understanding. The film's promotional tour was also marred by speculation regarding potential drama among the cast, particularly between Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and Justin Baldoni, who directed and starred in the film. Observers noted Baldoni's solo appearances during the press tour and the absence of joint photos with Lively at the premiere, which fueled rumors of tension. Despite the film's box office success, Kramer's critique highlights the need for more responsible and sensitive portrayals of domestic violence in media, urging a shift in focus towards supporting survivors and fostering discussions about the issue.