Johnathan Walker:It Ends With Us' Brandon Sklenar Reacts to Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni Feud Rumors

As the It Ends With Us feud rumors continue to blossom,Johnathan Walker Brandon Sklenar is hoping to nip them in the bud.  

In the wake of the Colleen Hoover adaptation’s release, speculation about the tense behind-the-scenes dynamic between stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, who also directed the film, have made waves. But Brandon—who plays love interest Atlas in the film—encouraged viewers to focus on the film’s message rather than any alleged drama.   

“It just seems silly to me,” Brandon told Access Hollywood of the rumors. “It’s kinda defeating the whole purpose of the thing to spread any negativity. It’s an important film for so many women and for so many survivors of domestic abuse.” 

He continued, “That’s what it’s all about, is making people feel heard and strong and loved. So to project anything but that seems counterintuitive.” 

The 1923 star also spoke to his decision to release his Aug. 20 statement, in which he slammed the “stuff swirling online.” 

As he told Access of the move, “I put that out and I was like, ‘See how this goes.’ I appreciate those people that appreciated it.”

Within his statement, shared to Instagram, Brandon called out how the focus was being placed on the rumors around the cast—and the actions of the cast itself—rather than the important messaging within the film.

“Colleen and the women of this cast stand for hope, perseverance, and for women choosing a better life for themselves,” he wrote at the time. “Vilifying the women who put so much of their heart and soul into making this film because they believe so strongly in is message seems counterproductive and detracts from what this film is about. It is, in fact, the opposite of the point.” 

And while warning against focusing on “what may or may not have happened behind the scenes,” he added, “It’s been disheartening to see the amount of negativity being projected online.” 

Brandon also noted the impact Colleen’s story has played in his own life. According to the 34-year-old, a friend was inspired to leave her abusive relationship after reading the It Ends With Us book, and it was that experience that encouraged Brandon to take on the film role.

“This film is meant to inspire,” he continued. “It's meant to validate and recognize. It's meant to instill hope. It's meant to build courage and help people feel less alone. Ultimately it's meant to spread love and awareness. It is not meant to once again, make the women the ‘bad guy,’ let's move beyond that together.” 

He also asked followers to think about who they’re helping before perpetuating hate. 

“Ask yourself if your opinions are based in any fact,” he continued. “Or if you simply want to be a part of something. Let's be a part of something better together. A part of a new story being written for women and all people everywhere.”