Paul Feig Denies A Simple Favor 2 Was Scrapped Amid Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Lawsuits: “Total BS”
Rumors and speculation tend to spread more quickly than formal pronouncements in the tumultuous world of Hollywood. The much-anticipated follow-up to the 2018 smash blockbuster A Simple Favor, A Simple Favor 2, recently gained further attention after rumors surfaced that the movie had been scrapped because of legal troubles involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. Paul Feig, the director, has refuted these allegations, referring to them as “complete nonsense.”
The Origins of the Rumors
The original A Simple Favor, a dark comedy horror film, garnered a loyal fan base thanks to its stylish direction, surprising plot twists, and standout performances from Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick. Given the film’s success, a sequel was inevitable, and fans were delighted when it was announced that Lively, Kendrick, and Feig would reunite for A Simple Favor 2. However, the production has faced delays, fueling speculation about potential roadblocks behind the scenes.
Rumors of the film being shelved came to a head when news broke of separate legal battles involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, who was reportedly set to star in the sequel. Lively’s legal dispute reportedly revolves around contractual disagreements with another project, while Baldoni is facing an intellectual property lawsuit related to one of his projects. Some industry insiders have suggested that these issues could impact the film’s release and production schedule, leading to speculation that the sequel has been canceled.
Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively in ‘A Simple Favor’
Paul Feig Sets the Record Straight
Paul Feig, known for his wit and candor, wasted no time in addressing the rumors that have been circulating. In a recent interview, Feig dismissed claims that A Simple Favor 2 was canceled due to legal troubles as “complete nonsense.”
“People like to jump to conclusions,” Feig commented. “Let me be clear: A Simple Favor 2 is still very exciting. Yes, we’ve had a few delays, but they’re not related to legal issues involving Blake or Justin. These things happen in Hollywood. Projects get delayed for a variety of reasons, but canceling the movie? That’s absolutely not true.”
Feig emphasized the entire team’s commitment to the sequel, noting that everyone involved is excited to bring the next chapter of the story to life. “Blake, Anna and the rest of the cast are all in. We’re working out the scheduling and other logistical details, but A Simple Favor 2 is happening.”
While Feig’s reassurance is welcome news for fans, it’s important to understand the complexities of making a sequel, especially one that combines dark humor and suspense that A Simple Favor does. Sequels often face heightened expectations, and creative teams must balance staying true to the original while still delivering something new and exciting.
Feig is no stranger to these challenges. His track record includes successful projects like Bridesmaids and The Heat, where he demonstrated his ability to combine humor with strong storytelling. For A Simple Favor 2, Feig hinted at exploring deeper layers of the characters while maintaining the film’s signature style.
“A sequel gives us the opportunity to expand the universe that we’ve created,” Feig explained. “With A Simple Favor, we built a world full of intrigue, fashion and unexpected twists. The sequel will delve deeper into the lives of the characters, uncovering secrets that will leave audiences breathless.”
While specific plot details for A Simple Favor 2 are still being kept under wraps, Feig has teased that the sequel will continue the story of Stephanie (Anna Kendrick) and Emily (Blake Lively), two women caught in a web of lies, deceit, and unexpected alliances. The ending of the first film left audiences questioning Emily’s true motives and the future of her relationship with Stephanie, setting the stage for an intriguing sequel.
Feig has hinted that the sequel will explore new dimensions for both characters, delving into their pasts and the consequences of their actions. “We’re not just picking up where we left off,” he said. “There’s so much more to these characters than what we saw. There are layers to this sequel that will surprise audiences.”
Adding Justin Baldoni, known for Jane the Virgin and his directorial debut Clouds, to the mix adds to the excitement. Baldoni’s role in the sequel remains under wraps, but his involvement suggests a new dynamic that could bring new tension and complexity to the story.
A Simple Favor 2 is looking like a sequel worth waiting for, despite the rumors and delays. Fans are reassured by Paul Feig’s assured denial of the cancellation rumors that the production is proceeding and that the creative team is totally dedicated to producing a movie that upholds the tradition of the first.
Anticipation for what looks to be another chic, tense, and darkly humorous installment is growing as the production gets ready. Feig, Lively, Kendrick, and Baldoni’s combined skills make A Simple Favor 2 a promising follow-up that will keep fans wondering right up until the very end.
