At the TIME100 Gala held at Lincoln Center in New York, political commentator Megyn Kelly publicly criticized actress Blake Lively‘s inclusion on TIME magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people. Kelly, who also appeared on the list, labeled Lively’s recognition a “ridiculous joke” and accused her of making a baseless #MeToo allegation against co-star and director Justin Baldoni.

Kelly stated, “She shouldn’t be here. She has no influence over anything,” referencing the ongoing legal battle between Lively and Baldoni, which began after Lively accused him of sexual harassment. Baldoni has countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, for $400 million, alleging they sought to ruin his career.

Despite the controversy, Lively’s TIME100 profile, penned by civil rights attorney Sherrilyn Ifill, highlighted her philanthropy and curiosity but did not mention the legal dispute. Kelly suggested that TIME included Lively to attract celebrity attention, calling it a “crass publicity stunt.”

The legal proceedings between Lively and Baldoni are ongoing, with a trial scheduled for May 2026.

Reynolds was accused of making light of the lawsuit in a Saturday Night Live appearance.

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Paige Javor

Article by Paige Javor

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