Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds Face Backlash Over “Working-Class” Claims

Hollywood power couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are under fire after Ryan’s recent remarks about their “working-class” upbringing. During an interview, the 48-year-old actor revealed how the couple strives to provide a normal life for their four children despite their glittering careers. However, his description of Blake’s background as “working-class” has stirred significant backlash.

A Tale of Two Backgrounds

Blake, 37, best known for her role in Gossip Girl, grew up in Tarzana, Los Angeles, in a family deeply entrenched in Hollywood. Her late father, Ernie Lively, was a seasoned actor and director, while her mother, Elaine Lively, worked as an actress and talent manager. Blake began her own career at just 10 years old in the 1998 film Sandman, directed by her father.

By contrast, Ryan’s father, James Reynolds, was a former Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer turned food wholesaler, while his mother, Tamara Lee, worked in retail. Despite these differences, Ryan claimed that both he and Blake were raised in families that instilled hard-working values.

Fans Disagree: “This Isn’t Working-Class.”

Ryan’s comments sparked a wave of criticism online, with fans pointing out Blake’s privileged upbringing. One Instagram user quipped, “People from the working class don’t get married on plantations,” referencing the couple’s controversial 2012 wedding at Boone Hall Plantation in South Carolina.

Others called out the perceived disconnect, with one noting, “Her entire family worked in entertainment. She grew up in Tarzana and went to Burbank High. That’s not exactly working-class.” Another compared the situation to Victoria Beckham’s infamous “working-class” claim in the 2023 Beckham documentary, which prompted husband David to retort, “Be honest.”

Blake’s Rise in Hollywood

Blake’s childhood was far from ordinary. She grew up on film sets and watched her parents coach aspiring actors. Her early roles included The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, which she landed at 16, kickstarting her rise to stardom.

Her siblings, including actor Eric Lively and three half-siblings, also pursued careers in entertainment. This legacy led many to label Blake a quintessential “Nepo Baby,” a term used to describe individuals who benefit from their family’s industry connections.

Past Controversies Resurface

The backlash over Ryan’s comments comes on the heels of a tough year for Blake. Critics recently revisited her use of a transphobic slur in resurfaced interviews and scrutinized her behaviour on press tours for her upcoming film It Ends With Us, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. The accusations of minimizing domestic violence themes in the movie’s promotion have further fueled the public’s discontent.

Ryan and Blake’s Family Focus

Despite the controversy, Ryan emphasized their shared goal of raising their children—James, Inez, Betty, and Olin—with a sense of normalcy. “We try to avoid overindulgence and remind them of the values we grew up with,” he explained.

Yet, many fans remain unconvinced, with one commenting, “Rich people love to redefine ‘working class’ as anyone who’s ever had a job.” Others highlighted the irony of framing their multimillion-dollar lives as relatable.

As the couple navigates their latest PR challenges, both their careers remain strong. Blake’s upcoming role in It Ends With Us and Ryan’s ventures, including his alcohol-free beverage line and new film projects, continue to keep them in the spotlight.

For now, the couple’s attempt to connect with everyday struggles has only sparked more questions about the realities of privilege in Hollywood.