Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, one of Hollywood’s most celebrated couples, are facing significant backlash following recent comments about their upbringings. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Reynolds remarked, “We both grew up very working class,” while discussing efforts to provide a normal life for their four children.

This statement has sparked criticism, particularly regarding Lively’s background. Born into a family deeply entrenched in the entertainment industry, Lively’s father, Ernie Lively, was a seasoned actor and producer, and her mother, Elaine Lively, worked as a talent manager. Lively herself made her acting debut at the age of 10 in the film Sandman, directed by her father, and gained prominence as a teenager with a role in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.

Critics argue that Lively’s early exposure to Hollywood and familial connections align more with a privileged upbringing than the “working class” label Reynolds used. Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions, with one user commenting, “You keep using that word, ‘working class.’ I do not think it means what you think it means.” THE INDEPENDENT

In contrast, Reynolds hails from a more modest background in Vancouver, Canada. His father worked as a police officer and later as a food broker, while his mother was employed in retail sales.

The couple’s comments come at a time when discussions about privilege and nepotism in Hollywood are particularly prominent. The term “nepo baby” has gained traction, referring to individuals who have benefited from familial connections in the industry. Lively’s background has led some to categorize her within this group, intensifying scrutiny of Reynolds’s remarks.

Public relations experts note that while celebrities may attempt to appear relatable by referencing humble beginnings, such statements can backfire if perceived as inauthentic. Megan Balyk, a vice president at the public relations firm Jive PR + Digital, stated, “In today’s world, where authenticity is key, a working-class background can make a celebrity seem more genuine. Plus, it can help deflect criticism about privilege or nepotism.” BUSINESS INSIDER

This incident is not the first time Lively and Reynolds have faced public criticism. They previously came under fire for holding their 2012 wedding at a South Carolina plantation, a site with historical ties to slavery. The couple later expressed deep regret over the decision, acknowledging it as a significant mistake.

As the debate over their recent comments continues, it highlights the complexities celebrities face when discussing personal histories in the public eye. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of context and awareness in conversations about privilege, especially within industries like Hollywood, where discussions about nepotism and access are increasingly prevalent.

For a more in-depth analysis of the backlash surrounding Ryan Reynolds’s “working class” comments, you can watch the following video:

What are your thoughts on celebrities discussing their backgrounds in the context of privilege and class?