Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds’ Awkward SNL50 Appearance

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' 'Awkward' SNL50 Appearance Analyzed by Body Language Expert

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' recent appearance at SNL50: The Anniversary Special has sparked discussions, particularly due to their body language amid their ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni. Expert Judi James analyzed their demeanor, describing it as “awkward and stiff,” reflecting the tension surrounding their legal troubles.

A Risky Appearance Amid Legal Drama

The Hollywood couple made their first public appearance in two months, standing together at the high-profile event. Their decision to attend a show known for its unfiltered humor was called "brave to the point of reckless" by James. She noted that while humor can diffuse tension, it also risks drawing more attention to the controversy.

Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds’ Awkward SNL50 Appearance

Ryan Reynolds' Joke and Social Media Reaction

During the event, Reynolds made a subtle yet pointed joke in a segment with SNL legends Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. When asked, "How's it going?" he responded, "Great—why, what have you heard?" The quip, seemingly referencing the legal drama, quickly went viral.

Blake Lively’s face says it all. ????

She looks shook after Ryan Reynolds cracked that joke at SNL 50. The timing is wild—Justin Baldoni has a defamation lawsuit against both of them, and Ryan is still out here making jokes like none of this is happening?

You’d think they’d be… pic.twitter.com/jTn5WYsBQ5
— DEL (@delinthecity_) February 17, 2025

Reactions on social media were divided. Some saw it as an attempt at damage control, while others criticized Reynolds and Lively for making light of serious allegations. One user wrote, "How sweet of SNL to try and clean up their mess—but it won’t work." Another remarked, "Kevin Costner’s face says it all."

Kevin Costner’s Unimpressed Reaction

Adding to the online buzz, Kevin Costner, who was seated behind Lively and Reynolds, appeared visibly unimpressed during the segment. His reaction became a meme, with fans commenting that he represented public sentiment toward the couple.

Body Language Breakdown: Signs of Discomfort

Judi James highlighted multiple signs of unease between the couple:

Lively’s hesitant body language: She extended her arm for a hug but kept her hand at a limp angle, signaling possible reluctance.
Reynolds’ fidgeting: He appeared tense and restless, further indicating discomfort.
Forced smiles: Both seemed to struggle with maintaining a natural expression, adding to the overall awkwardness of the moment.

The Legal Battle and Its Fallout

The controversy stems from allegations made by Lively against Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment during the filming of It Ends With Us. Baldoni has denied the claims and filed a $400 million defamation lawsuit against Lively and Reynolds, alleging an attempt to damage his reputation.

justin-baldoni-podcast-blake-lively-lawsuit

Baldoni’s team has even launched a website displaying text messages and communications, aiming to prove a conspiracy against him. Meanwhile, the scandal has affected Lively’s other projects, with Another Simple Favor director Paul Feig distancing her from creative decisions on the film.

Did Their SNL Appearance Help or Hurt?

By addressing the controversy with humor, Lively and Reynolds may have intended to control the narrative, but their body language told a different story. With the legal battle intensifying, the couple’s public actions will continue to be scrutinized—especially by Hollywood insiders like Kevin Costner, who seem to have already taken a stance.