Colleen Hoover, the acclaimed author behind the best-selling novel *It Ends with Us*, is open to the idea of a sequel following the successful 2024 film adaptation, which starred Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. In a recent interview with *Variety*, Hoover expressed enthusiasm for a continuation, especially if it draws from her 2022 companion novel, *It Starts with Us*.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/blake-lively-justin-baldoni-it-ends-with-us-080724-1-d4cefa9bb01a4f34b6b54e5824e163b0.jpg)
The film, which highlighted pressing themes surrounding domestic violence, was directed by Baldoni, who had acquired the rights to the novel prior to an intense legal dispute with Lively. Despite the turmoil surrounding the personalities involved, Hoover maintained a supportive stance towards any potential sequels stemming from her works.
“I don’t own the rights to the film sequel, so if they decide to make another one, I’m all for it!” said Hoover, 46. This sentiment reflects her commitment to the narratives she has created and the characters that have resonated with readers and viewers alike.
The 2024 adaptation of *It Ends with Us* traced the tumultuous relationship between high school sweethearts Lily Bloom, portrayed by Lively, and Atlas Corrigan, played by Brandon Sklenar. Following the film’s success, Hoover strategically expanded the story in *It Starts with Us*, prompting many to speculate on the possibility of bringing these beloved characters back to the big screen.
The film of *It Ends with Us* was a significant project, produced by Columbia Pictures and Baldoni’s Wayfarer Studios, with distribution by Sony Pictures Releasing. Hoover served as a producer on the film, indicating her active involvement in the adaptation process—something she has done with multiple projects based on her novels, including upcoming films *Regretting You* and *Reminders of Him*.
In response to questions about her influence over the selection of directors for her adaptations, Hoover remarked, “It really depends on the film.” She highlighted the collaborative nature of these choices, noting that she and her production partner, Lauren Levine, were pivotal in selecting director Vanessa Caswill for *Reminders of Him*.
The relationship between Baldoni and Lively has come under scrutiny, notably due to a legal battle that erupted shortly after the film’s release. Lively, known for her role in *Gossip Girl*, filed a sexual harassment complaint against Baldoni in December 2024, claiming misconduct and a retaliatory smear campaign. Baldoni, known for his work on *Jane the Virgin*, countered with a $400 million lawsuit alleging defamation and breach of contract against Lively and others involved. After a prolonged legal confrontation, both parties reached a settlement announced on May 4.
Addressing the strained relationship between the film’s stars, Hoover remarked, “I feel for everyone, you know? As the author, I was — and am — so proud of that movie. I think they did a great job.” Her comments reflect both empathy for the individuals involved and appreciation for the creative outcome of the film adaptation.
Prior to the legal issues surfacing, Baldoni hinted at the potential for a sequel during an interview with *Entertainment Tonight* in August 2024. He expressed confidence in Lively’s capabilities, suggesting, “I think Blake Lively’s ready to direct, that’s what I think,” hinting at her growing stature in the industry beyond acting.
As Hoover continues to expand her influence in Hollywood with upcoming adaptations such as *Verity*, set for release on October 2, her eagerness for a sequel to *It Ends with Us* signifies her deep engagement with her stories and characters. As fans await the prospect of revisiting Lily and Atlas, the future of Hoover’s cinematic pursuits appears to be full of potential and exciting developments.