Bethenny Frankel Defends Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds' SNL Stunt
Bethenny Frankel Calls Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds' SNL Appearance 'Marketing Genius'
Hollywood power couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds made waves during their Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special appearance. This marked their first major public outing amid Lively's legal battle with It Ends With Us director Justin Baldoni. While their attendance sparked mixed reactions online, reality TV star Bethenny Frankel praised their move as a brilliant marketing strategy.
A Viral SNL Moment
During an audience Q&A session with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, Reynolds playfully addressed the ongoing controversy, prompting a wave of backlash from social media users. Some found the couple’s presence bold and strategic, while others saw it as tone-deaf.
Audience Q&A with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey! #SNL50 pic.twitter.com/XYqXMddhS9
— Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) February 17, 2025
Related: Brandon Sklenar Stays Neutral in Lively-Baldoni Drama
Bethenny Frankel Defends the Power Couple
Frankel, known for her sharp business acumen, took to Instagram to call the moment "marketing genius." She pointed out that SNL has a history of featuring controversial figures, making Lively and Reynolds a perfect fit for the show's disruptive culture.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Kevin Costner’s reaction in the audience of SNL 50 show says it all!
— Flesh Gordon (@TheFleshGordon) February 18, 2025
He’s thinking the same thing we all are! “Are you that Stupid Ryan Reynolds? , You and your wife are being sued for 400 million! SHUT UP” ????#SNL50 #kevincostner #BlakeLively #RyanReynolds @SaraElyse128 pic.twitter.com/gLsuKe7X0M
Despite Frankel’s support, social media was divided. Some users argued that the stunt was outdated PR tactics, while others believed it made the couple look desperate. Critics highlighted the awkward reactions from stars like Kevin Costner, Cher, and Anya Taylor-Joy, who were seen nearby during the moment.
Related: Blake Lively’s Team Accused of Leaking HR Complaints to TMZ
Ryan Reynolds’ Subtle Jab at the Scandal
When Fey and Poehler asked Reynolds how things were going, he jokingly responded, "Great — why, what have you heard?" The audience reaction was lukewarm, with many questioning whether the couple’s attempt to control the narrative was effective or a misstep.
Read more: Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds’ Awkward SNL50 Appearance
