Adam Mondschein, who appeared in It ends with ushas hit back at Blake Lively’s claims about filming the film’s controversial childbirth scene.
In an interview with Page sixMondschein, who played obstetrician Dr. Dunbar, disputed Lively’s claims that the scene was “invasive and humiliating,” arguing instead that the actress was the most powerful person on set.
He claimed that as a producer, Lively was involved in every creative decision and was “very confident and firm” rather than the “withering flower” her legal complaints might suggest.
The issue stems from a lawsuit Lively filed against her co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, which was settled in a “last minute deal” on May 4, 2024 to avoid a lengthy trial.
In her documents, Lively claimed she was “disturbed” by Baldoni’s choices, specifically saying he chose a “best friend” as his obstetrician-gynecologist for a scene where the actor’s face and hands were in “almost” proximity to her. [fully exposed]”.
She called the experience “violent” and suggested a local actor should have played the role instead.
However, Mondschein took personal offense by implying that he was unqualified or that the whole thing was unprofessional.
With an MFA from UCLA and experience with the Tony Award-winning acting company, the actor called Lively’s version of events “insulting” and “contrary to reality.”
He said that during the crucial hospital scene, Lively was “fully covered,” wearing a hospital gown, black shorts and a prosthetic.
“There is nothing to see. Nothing to look at,” he insisted, explaining that it was above all a “living baby” covered in raspberry jelly and cream cheese to simulate a birth.
Mondschein also defended Baldoni’s intentions for the film, adapted from the popular novel by Colleen Hoover.
He explained that Baldoni’s desire was to highlight important conversations about domestic violence and men’s responsibility in these discussions.
While Lively’s lawsuit previously accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and creating a toxic environment, Mondschein maintains the director poured his heart into the project to ensure the best possible story was told to fans.
The agreement between the two stars ends a bitter public legal battle that has overshadowed the film since its production.
Although the terms of the agreement remain confidential, the judge and magistrate reportedly pushed for an agreement to prevent the case from dragging out.
For Mondschein, the priority remains setting the record straight on a scene that he says was handled professionally, despite the “humiliating” picture painted in legal documents.
