Blake Lively just shared the sweetest birthday tribute to It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover, leaving fans teary-eyed and overwhelmed with emotion. On Wednesday, December 11, the 37-year-old actress took to Instagram to honor Hoover, celebrating both her friendship and the profound impact Hoover’s writing has had on her life.
The post, set to the iconic ballad For Good from Wicked, featured a candid moment between the two, with Lively and Hoover sharing a fun laugh while enjoying street corn. “Everyone who knows this woman is changed for it,” Lively wrote, pouring her heart out about the author. “She loves her fans. She loves her friends. She loves her community… and oh boy do we love her,” the Gossip Girl alum added. Lively’s words were a testament to Hoover’s unwavering kindness, humor, and dedication to her craft, but it was the actress’ closing message that truly hit home: “My life has changed because of your work. Your art. Your friendship. For good. So many people’s have. And we thank you. Today and every day.”
Colleen Hoover, who celebrated her 45th birthday, couldn’t help but share Lively’s tribute on her Instagram Stories, adding a playful touch with a corn emoji—clearly embracing the love and admiration sent her way. The gesture wasn’t just a token of friendship, but a nod to their meaningful bond that began earlier this year on the big screen.
Lively, who played Lily Bloom in the movie adaptation of Hoover’s bestselling 2016 novel It Ends With Us, was clearly moved by the connection she formed with Hoover throughout the project. Alongside co-stars Justin Baldoni, who played Ryle, and Brandon Sklenar as Atlas, Lively brought Hoover’s beloved characters to life in a way that captured the hearts of the book’s millions of fans.
Hoover, who also served as a consultant on the film, was nothing but complimentary about Lively’s performance. Speaking to People magazine earlier this year, Hoover gushed, “Blake Lively truly brought Lily Bloom to life in a way that exceeded all my expectations. She was captivating, stunning, and emotional.” It’s clear that their relationship isn’t just one of professional admiration, but one built on mutual respect and genuine affection.
The heartfelt tribute comes just days after the film’s release, making it a fitting moment to reflect on the impact of Hoover’s work, both as an author and as a friend. Lively’s words about Hoover’s generosity and passion for her community are a reminder of how deeply the author’s work resonates with readers—and how that impact extends far beyond the pages of her books.
Lively’s tribute isn’t just a celebration of Hoover’s birthday, but a powerful reminder of the lasting connections we can form with the people who inspire us. For Lively, that connection was forged through both friendship and the transformative art of Colleen Hoover, leaving an indelible mark on her life “for good.”