Adam Mondschein, who appeared in It ends with ushas hit back at Blake Lively’s claims regarding the filming of the film’s controversial birth scene.
In an interview with Page sixMondschein, who played OBGYN 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 inserted herself into 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 filings, Lively claimed she was “disturbed” by Baldoni’s choice, specifically claiming he cast a “best friend” as the OBGYN for a scene where the actor’s face and hands were near her “almost [fully exposed].”
She described the experience as “offensive” and suggested that a local actor should have been cast instead.
However, Mondschein has taken personal offense that he was unqualified or that the kit was unprofessional.
With an MFA from UCLA and a history with the Tony Award-winning Acting Company, the actor called Lively’s version of events “insulting” and “contrary to reality.”
He clarified that during the crucial hospital scene, Lively was “fully covered” wearing a hospital gown, black shorts and a prosthesis.
“There’s nothing to see. Nothing to look at,” he insisted, explaining that his focus was primarily on a “living baby” covered in raspberry jelly and cream cheese to simulate a birth.
Mondschein also defended Baldoni’s intentions with the film, which was adapted from Colleen Hoover’s popular novel.
He explained that Baldoni’s drive was to highlight important conversations about domestic violence and the responsibility men have in those discussions.
While Lively’s lawsuit previously accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and fostering a toxic environment, Mondschein maintains that the director put his heart into the project to ensure the best possible story was told for fans.
The settlement between the two stars brings to an end a public and bitter legal battle that has overshadowed the film since its production.
While the terms of the agreement remain private, the judge and magistrate reportedly pushed for a deal to prevent the case from dragging on.
For Mondschein, the priority remains to set the record straight on a scene he feels was handled with professionalism, despite the “humiliating” picture painted in the legal documents.
