In her latest ad for her beverage line, Blake Lively took a jab at the recent Photoshop controversy involving Kate Middleton — and it appears to have sparked backlash.
On March 13, Lively shared an Instagram post unveiling new flavors for her Betty Buzz and Betty Booze beverages, scheduled to debut this summer. The post featured a carousel of seven images showcasing the new products, with the first one clearly edited, seemingly referencing Middleton’s recent photo-editing scandal.
“I’m so excited to share this new photo I just took today to announce our 4 new @bettybuzz & @bettybooze products!” Lively wrote in the caption. “Now you know why I’ve been MIA.”
View this post on Instagram
In the manipulated image, Lively is seen seated by a pool, with noticeable digital alterations including warped surroundings, mismatched hands, and oddly placed props like lemons and drink cans.
Lively’s caption also revealed the new drink flavors: Sparkling Oak Smoked Lemonade Mocktail, Sparkling Apple Ginger Sour Cherry Mocktail, Sparkling Tequila with Smoky Pineapple, and Sparkling Bourbon with Oak Smoked Lemonade.
Unlike Middleton’s recent photo mishap on Mother’s Day, which led to photo agency retractions and speculation about her whereabouts post-surgery, Lively’s editing appeared intentional. Kensington Palace had issued an apology on behalf of Middleton, who acknowledged experimenting with editing as an amateur photographer.
While Lively intended the ad to be humorous, many in the comments section weren’t amused:
“Very disappointed. I never would have thought Blake would go low like this. 😢 Talk about women empowerment. Such [a shame] to see this.”
“Nothing like kicking another woman when she’s down 🤢”
Others criticized Lively for seemingly joining in on mocking Middleton during her recovery:
“Way to kick someone when they’re down. Real mean girl move.”
Even Hugh Jackman, a friend of the Lively-Reynolds family, faced criticism for his supportive comment.
However, a few defended Lively’s humor:
“More proof Blake & Ryan are Americas Queen & King!! ❤👏”
“Those are some Kate Middleton skills in that first photo 👌”