Ryan Reynolds Calls Out ‘Different Set of Standards’ for Women in First Public Appearance Amid Lively-Baldoni Legal Battle at National Board of Review Gala

variety.com:

Michaela Zee The National Board of Review awards gala, held Tuesday night at Manhattan’s Cipriani 42nd St., gathered the talents behind some of the most talked-about films of 2024.

Ryan Reynolds stepped out to present the best film award to “Wicked” at the star-studded gala, marking his first public outing since his wife, Blake Lively, filed a formal complaint against her “It Ends With Us” co-star and director, Justin Baldoni. “‘Wicked’ is indeed wicked.

It dares to center two powerful women. It examines a nuanced, complex relationship which has resonated with people for over two decades on stage,” Reynolds said on stage. “Stories about women seem to be held to a different set of standards, and that is to say that they’re often held to the standard women are held to in life.

You must be perfect. You must hide your strength. You must shape-shift or placate. But Donna Langley and Universal, they know where and with whom to place their trust, and it paid off in this film.” With his trademark charm and wit, Reynolds proceeded to playfully roast “Wicked” star Jonathan Bailey, who plays Fiyero in the musical film. “I have one note.