Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds spark online criticism over 'working class' comment

Blake Lively faced online criticism after her husband, Ryan Reynolds described her upbringing as “working class” during a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter.

Reynolds made the remark discussing how he and the Gossip Girl actress strive to give their four children a grounded upbringing despite their high-profile careers.

In regards to this, Reynolds stated, “We both grew up very working class,” while he added, “I try not to impose upon my kids the differences in their childhood to my childhood or my wife’s childhood.”

According to Daily Mail, fans were quick to challenge his claim, pointing to Lively’s Hollywood roots.

Moreover, the actress was raised in Tarzana, Los Angeles, by parents deeply embedded in the entertainment industry, her father, Ernie Lively was an actor and director while her mother, Elaine was a talent manager.

As per the publication, Lively began acting at the age of 10, with her father directing her debut film Sandman.

Additionally, critics called Reynolds’ statement “out of touch” with one commenting, “Her whole family was in the entertainment business... It’s giving at least middle class.”

Meanwhile, others compared the controversy to Victoria Beckham’s recent claim of a “working class” background in the Beckham documentary, which was met with similar skepticism.

Furthermore, this incident came amid ongoing scrutiny of Lively’s public persona and privileged upbringing, which some argue "undermines her relatability."

Fans also revisited her early career, noting how her family connections paved the way for her breakout role in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants at the age of 16.