Blake Lively Got Into TIME’s 100 Most Influential People
Blake Lively is officially part of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world for 2025. This achievement highlights not only her on-screen talent but also her off-screen activism and advocacy.
The 37-year-old actress joins an incredible lineup of honorees, including Scarlett Johansson, Joe Rogan, and former President Donald Trump. Lively’s inclusion comes at a notable time in her career and personal life. Amid an ongoing legal dispute with “It Ends With Us” director and co-star Justin Baldoni.
But Blake Lively’s work beyond the camera earned her this recognition, as highlighted in a heartfelt tribute penned by civil rights attorney Sherrilyn Ifill.“I don’t know the Blake Lively of the red carpet. Or the Met Gala. I never watched Gossip Girl,” Ifill wrote. “The Blake Lively I know is a philanthropist and a student of our country’s most intractable problems.”
Ifill revealed that Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, reached out in 2019 to support the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. This happened when the organization was gaining national attention to combat voter suppression and police brutality. “I’m always curious about the kind of research famous people do before they make that cold call,” Ifill added. “The ones I have remained in relationship with are those who, like Blake, really did their homework.”
Describing her as “a serious person” and “a risk taker,” Ifill praised Lively’s profound curiosity and unwavering commitment to justice. “She’s committed to moving this country forward — for her children. And for mine.”
Blake Lively and Her Influence on Culture
Blake Lively and Her Influence on Culture
The honor comes as Lively maintains a visible presence on the cultural stage. She was recently seen at the world premiere of Another Simple Favor during the 2025 SXSW Festival in Austin and later at the UK gala screening of It Ends With Us in London.
In his letter introducing the 2025 TIME100, Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs framed the list as a reflection of the moment defined by shifting power dynamics. Also, political polarization, and urgent calls for leadership. “TIME’s founders knew that focusing on the individuals who are transforming the world is the best way to help readers understand it,” Jacobs wrote. “Whatever change comes, we think the 2025 TIME100 will lead it.”
Spanning 32 countries and featuring 16 CEOs, six members of the Trump administration, and nine figures championing justice and democracy, this year’s list underscores the many faces of influence. And with her mix of Hollywood glamour and grounded humanitarianism, Blake Lively stands tall among them. Both as a celebrity and as a changemaker.
