The alleged case spotlights what some see as reputation’s dark side and manipulation beyond the screen, where reputation management can be a tool in shaping narratives. According to unverified sources, Lively claims the two engaged in sexual harassment on set and orchestrated a smear campaign to tarnish her reputation.

The unconfirmed complaint purportedly alleges that their PR strategy involved coordinating social media posts to paint Lively as difficult and insensitive while bolstering Baldoni’s image as an advocate for social causes. This tactic highlights the role of PR in shaping public perception and the kinds of strategies employed to sway public opinion.

Unveiling the Text Messages: Alleged Evidence of a Smear Campaign

Text messages cited in the rumored complaint are said to reveal a calculated effort to shift public opinion. PR representatives allegedly celebrated negative coverage of Lively while strategizing to suppress unfavorable narratives about Baldoni. This reportedly extended to platforms like TikTok, where amateur analyses fueled criticism of Lively. Even seemingly minor social media gestures, such as unfollows, were allegedly weaponized to deepen the drama.

Astroturfing and Misinformation

Astroturfing involves fabricating or amplifying grassroots support or opposition to create the illusion of widespread public support or disagreement. In the context of these unverified allegations, fake accounts and coordinated posts may have amplified criticism against Lively, while boosting Baldoni’s public image. This illustrates the thin line between facts and fabrications that exists online, where perceptions are often built on snippets of information or carefully crafted narratives.

How Selective Information Shapes Opinions

Opinions are often based on a single video clip, post, or headline, rather than a comprehensive understanding of the situation. PR professionals sometimes strategically leverage this tendency to sway public perception. Even minor details, such as suggesting someone is “unlikable,” can have a cumulative impact on how they are viewed.

The Need for Critical Thinking

This reported controversy highlights the importance of critically evaluating the information we see, read, and watch. While Lively’s alleged legal filing may have exposed tactics used against her, the lingering negative impressions showcase how difficult it is to fully restore a damaged reputation.

This rumored case underscores the fragility of online reputations and the challenges public figures face in 2025. A single viral post or trending hashtag can dramatically influence how someone is perceived, often leaving lasting effects even after the truth emerges.

Public figures, brands, and individuals need to navigate a landscape where perception can be engineered, reminding us that the stories we see online often represent only part of the truth.

Ethical Concerns in Reputation Management

Ethical boundaries are vital when it comes to shaping public perception. Some PR and reputation management agencies resort to dubious tactics like disinformation, astroturfing, or aggressive smear campaigns, risking not only public trust but also potential legal liabilities. Recover Reputation takes a firm stand against unethical methods. Our philosophy prioritizes transparent, honest, and responsible reputation repair strategies that support truth rather than distort it.