Is Colleen Hoover Retiring? Exploring the Reasons Behind Internet Speculation

For avid readers, Colleen Hoover is a well-known name in the literary world. While her romance novels have garnered considerable affection, they have also faced backlash for depicting toxic relationships. This polarized reception has made Hoover a figure of intrigue; however, her recent decision to retreat from social media has sparked conversations about her future in writing.

Colleen Hoover Withdraws from Instagram

Recently, amid the unfolding legal saga involving actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, who starred in the film adaptation of Hoover’s novel It Ends With Us, the author has made the choice to deactivate her Instagram account. This unexpected withdrawal from public life has led many to speculate about her intentions and whether she is stepping away from the spotlight entirely.

Scheduled for release in August 2024, the film It Ends With Us features a narrative centered around Lily Bloom (played by Lively) and her challenging relationship with neurosurgeon Ryle Kincard (portrayed by Baldoni).Although their romance starts tenderly, it quickly devolves into a turbulent and abusive situation. In her search for comfort, Lily rekindles a connection with her high school sweetheart, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), complicating her dynamics with Ryle.

Baldoni, who both starred in and directed the movie, garnered praise for his on-screen chemistry with Lively. However, tensions between the two became apparent during promotional events, where they frequently distanced themselves from each other’s presence. The situation escalated dramatically in December 2024 when Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni for sexual harassment, alleging that he created a hostile work environment and caused her severe emotional distress throughout the filming process.

Is Colleen Hoover Leaving the Literary Scene?

As the legal confrontation between Lively and Baldoni shows no signs of resolution, Hoover has refrained from commenting further. Her only public statement came shortly after Lively filed her lawsuit: in an Instagram Story, she expressed her unwavering support, stating, “Blake Lively, you have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive, and patient since the day we met. Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt.”

‘It Ends With Us’ author Colleen Hoover shows support for Blake Lively following lawsuit against Justin Baldoni:”You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive and patient since the day we met. Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt.” pic.twitter.com/1Hu55LSLkN

— Pop Base (@PopBase) December 22, 2024

Hoover’s silence and her recent exit from Instagram have led to speculation that she might be distancing herself from writing altogether. Rumors fueled by Deuxmoi suggest that she may have decided to retire. However, it is essential to note that there have been no official announcements confirming her retirement. Furthermore, indications suggest that she is not likely to step away permanently, as Simon & Schuster U. K. recently signed her for a two-book deal, with one anticipated for release in 2026.

While many of Hoover’s fans are saddened by the potential news of her retirement, reactions on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), reveal a mixed reception. Some users express joy at the possibility of her departure, while others share their dismay through a series of memes. Nevertheless, Hoover’s future remains uncertain.

wait, streets are saying Colleen Hoover is finally retiring from writing books pic.twitter.com/XvrR2zacu9

— Nora❦ (@hiscoraline) January 28, 2025

so colleen hoover is finally retiring and i just want to let everyone know that i was praying on her downfall the whole time pic.twitter.com/JPnEarOiHN

— anna ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ (@M00NLIGHTFAERIE) January 29, 2025

just found out colleen hoover retired? ??? pic.twitter.com/07zPOOUVFO

— kaye? ? has opinions! (@3arth2kaye) January 29, 2025

The Ongoing Legal Drama: Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni

The legal conflict between Lively and Baldoni remains unresolved and continues to escalate. Following Lively’s lawsuit, Baldoni’s attorney labeled her claims as “false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious.” He countered by alleging that Lively made a series of demands and threats during filming, including threats to withdraw from the project. In retaliation, Baldoni has filed a countersuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, for defamation.

In a further twist, Baldoni has joined ten other plaintiffs in a lawsuit against The New York Times, alleging that the publication biasedly depicted Lively’s accusations against him, suggesting a one-sided narrative. As both sides remain steadfast, legal proceedings are poised to intensify in the coming weeks.

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