Actor Ryan Reynolds attended Stephen Colbert’s “Late Show” farewell without Blake Lively, with insiders saying he chose to appear alone to keep attention on Colbert’s final show.
“The Late Show” had no issue with Lively attending, and she had been expected at one point. Reynolds later decided it would be better to arrive solo.
The finale included several celebrity appearances, including Paul Rudd, Bryan Cranston, Jon Stewart, Jimmy Fallon and Paul McCartney.
Insiders said Reynolds was aware that Lively’s appearance could shift social media attention toward her recent legal dispute with Justin Baldoni over “It Ends With Us.”
The legal matter had recently been settled, with both sides issuing a joint statement focused on workplace respect and closure. Public interest in the dispute, however, has continued.
Lively’s public image remains polarising, and Reynolds did not want Colbert’s farewell to be overshadowed by gossip or backlash.
Read: Judge Dismisses Justin Baldoni’s $400M Lawsuit Against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds
Reports also said Lively has been selective with public appearances in recent weeks as she manages her visibility.
