Blake Lively, a prominent figure in Hollywood known for her roles in "Gossip Girl" and numerous films, has captivated audiences not only with her talent but also with her well-documented romantic journey. Before becoming one half of one of Hollywood's most adored power couples with Ryan Reynolds, Lively navigated several significant relationships, each contributing to her public persona and personal growth. Her romantic history, while not extensive, is marked by high-profile pairings and a clear progression towards her enduring marriage.
Blake Lively's first publicly acknowledged relationship was with Kelly Blatz. The two began dating in 2004 when Lively was 17, having co-starred in the 2006 slasher film "Simon Says." Their relationship, which lasted for three years until 2007, was relatively low-key compared to her later romances. Blatz was reportedly her first serious boyfriend, and their split coincided with Lively's career beginning to take off, particularly with her casting in "Gossip Girl."
Soon after, Lively entered a highly publicized relationship with her "Gossip Girl" co-star, Penn Badgley. The on-screen romance between their characters, Serena van der Woodsen and Dan Humphrey, mirrored their real-life connection. They began dating in 2007 and initially kept their relationship private, denying rumors before eventually confirming it. The couple became a fan favorite, often photographed together at events like the 2008 Met Costume Institute Gala.
Their relationship, however, faced the unique challenges of working together on a hit show where their characters were also romantically involved. Lively and Badgley dated for approximately three years, reportedly ending their relationship in 2010. Despite the breakup, they continued to work together on "Gossip Girl" until the series concluded in 2012, maintaining a professional demeanor on set. Joshua Safran, an executive producer of the show, later revealed that the couple had broken up months before the news became public.
Following her split from Penn Badgley, Blake Lively had a brief but notable fling with Hollywood superstar Leonardo DiCaprio. The pair were first linked in May 2011 after being seen together in Cannes, enjoying yacht life and strolling through Antibes. Their romance was a high-profile, whirlwind affair that garnered significant media attention.
During this period, Lively reportedly sent DiCaprio photos of a doll she carried, a quirky detail that highlighted her unique personality and was noted by "Gossip Girl" producer Joshua Safran as being "way ahead of the curve" in terms of documenting life through photos, predating Instagram's widespread use. The relationship was short-lived, concluding by October 2011. Lively had also been rumored to have gone on a few dates with Ryan Gosling in 2010, including a Disneyland outing, though this was never confirmed as a serious relationship.
The pivotal moment in Blake Lively's romantic history arrived when she reconnected with Ryan Reynolds. They first met in 2010 on the set of the superhero film "Green Lantern," where they played love interests. At the time, Lively was still dating Penn Badgley, and Reynolds was married to Scarlett Johansson. They developed a strong friendship, which proved to be the foundation for their future romance.
About a year and a half later, in 2011, Lively and Reynolds found themselves on a double date, but with other people. Reynolds famously recalled the experience, stating that despite being with separate partners, "fireworks" were evident between him and Lively. Their undeniable chemistry led them to begin dating in October 2011. The couple quickly became inseparable, and their relationship progressed rapidly.
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds surprised many when they married in a private ceremony on September 9, 2012, at Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. The wedding was intimate and kept largely under wraps, reflecting their preference for privacy despite their celebrity status. Their union marked the beginning of one of Hollywood's most beloved and enduring marriages, characterized by mutual respect, humor, and strong family values.
Over the years, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have expanded their family, welcoming four children. Their first daughter, James, was born in December 2014. Their second daughter, Inez, arrived in September 2016. In a playful and public reveal, their third daughter, Betty, had her name disclosed by Taylor Swift in her 2020 song "Betty," a detail confirmed by the couple. Their fourth child, a son named Olin, was born in February 2023, completing their family.
The couple is renowned for their playful banter and affectionate trolling on social media, which has endeared them to fans worldwide. They often share humorous anecdotes about their family life, showcasing a down-to-earth and relatable dynamic. Lively and Reynolds frequently praise each other in interviews, highlighting their strong partnership and deep connection. Their relationship stands as a testament to finding lasting love in the public eye, evolving from early high-profile romances to a stable and joyful family life. Blake Lively's romantic journey culminates in a celebrated marriage, defining her as a devoted wife and mother alongside her successful acting career.