Hoover, the author of the 2016 book the movie is based off of, and Blake Lively, 36, were pictured at the film’s NYC premiere August 6

The tension between Baldoni and Lively allegedly continued at the film’s New York City premiere, where Baldoni only posed for photos with his wife Emily Baldoni, 40, and relatives, skipping full cast pictures. According to sources, Lively wants to direct the next movie and secure the rights from Colleen Hoover, effectively sidelining Baldoni.

Baldoni’s behavior on set was reportedly “extremely difficult” for the cast and crew, with sources claiming that he created a tense atmosphere and was “dismissive” of Lively’s suggestions during scenes depicting abuse. The director allegedly behaved in a “chauvinistic” and “borderline abusive” manner, leading to a rift between him and the film’s leading star.

The future of the franchise is now uncertain, with Baldoni’s behavior potentially impacting future projects. The director’s production company, Wayfarer Studios, holds the rights to the book, but it’s unclear if he will be involved in a potential sequel.

Baldoni seemed to distance himself from directing a sequel in a red carpet interview, saying that he thinks “there are better people for that one” and that Blake Lively is “ready to direct.”

Lively was pictured at the August 6 premiere of the movie in NYC

The movie, which finished second at the domestic box office over the weekend with $50 million, tells the story of Lily, a woman who overcomes a traumatic childhood to start a new life, only to find herself in a complicated relationship with a neurosurgeon.