30 Pretty Purr-fect Gifts For Your Pet

Calling all pet owners! It’s pretty much impossible to resist the impulse to buy a stocking stuffer for your favorite cat or dog. And with those cute little faces, we just can’t imagine leaving our pets out of the gifting fun. That’s why we’ve pulled together 30 great pet gifts for cats, dogs, fish, and even a bird or two! Looking for something a bit more tech savvy for your pet this season? Try these pet gadgets or this list of activity trackers.

1. Fresh Patch Disposable Dog Potty With Real Grass ($17): Particularly useful to those city dwelling pups, this real grass will allow your pet some relief without undoing all that training!

2. pEi Pod Pet Bed ($100): This mod little pet perk is a luxurious gift for that feline friend or small dog. Complete with a soft cushion in a bright pop of color. We’re definitely adding this to our list of modern cat homes!

3. BarkBox Subscription ($19+): These monthly subscription boxes show up on your doorstep chock-full of delicious goodies, toys, gifts, and gadgets for your pup. The contents are personalized according to the size of your pup, plus part of the proceeds go towards supporting a rescue group. Love this idea? It’s your lucky day—enter here to win one year subscription to BarkBox!

4. Kitty Mansions Amazon Cat Tree ($332): Bring the wild into your home with this su-purr-b amazon-themed cat furniture. Just think of it as a Legends of the Hidden Temple obstacle course for cats!

5. Planet Dog Orbee Tuff Toys ($11): These tough little fruits and veggies are perfect for the dog that likes to chew…a lot! These eco-friendly toys are recyclable and free of toxic elements, which means they’re just as good for your pup as they are for the environment!

6. Petego Comfort Wagon ($560): Are you an avid biker that likes to bring your furry bestie along for the ride? This comfort wagon is a fancy way to tote your pets along to the beach, the office, or wherever you may ride. If you fancy something a little less flashy, pick up the smaller Kasko version for half the price.

7. Humunga Stache Ball ($8): Nothing like a little facial hair to make a dog look refined. ;) We’d go so far as to set up a pup-friendly photo booth just to capture the hilarity that is this chew toy!

8. Alfie Pet Pop-Up Bowls ($8): These brightly colored bowls pop up into place and fold when they’re empty, providing your pet with a stylish solution for much needed food or water on the go.

9. Featherstone Heights Victorian cage ($81): With shuttered windows, a “brick” chimney, and a tower to rival that of the Barbie Dreamhouse, we cannot get over how amazing this birdcage is! Give your parakeet a posh abode that doesn’t clash with your decor.

10. Dropcam Pro ($199): Got a pet that likes to get into trouble? This little camera will allow you to check in on them from your smartphone.

11. Sleepypod ($140): This modern pet carrier is a perfect way to make your pet feel safe on the go. It even converts into a car seat!

12. BiOrb Flow Aquarium ($119): This low-maintenance aquarium is sleek and beautiful to boot! Its square shape makes it perfect to tuck into small spaces, but it also comes in a traditional fishbowl-like design.

13. Nature Spa Water Fountain UV ($49): This little bubbler is not just a cute way to keep your pet hydrated, it’s also super smart: its self-sterilizing system ensures that bacteria doesn’t grow in the tank, providing high-quality water for your parched pooch.

14. Lighted Dog Collar ($25): Night walkers: consider getting a collar that lets cars or bikes know that you have a furry friend in tow! These collars come in a slew of patterns and colors, like this bone motif with blue LED lights.

15. Neon Pet Hoodie ($20): Know a pup that shivers in the cold? Warm them up with one of these colorful zip-up hoodies! This guy gives American Apparel models a real run for their money! ;)

16. Kitty Play Circuit ($16): Keep your cat happy and active with this futuristic play circuit. Seeing the toy move through it can keep a cat busy for hours!

17. Nina Huang 9×12 Inches Pet Portrait ($325): If you know a posh pet that deserves to be the subject of their very own portrait, this is the ultimate artsy gift for their owner. The artist Nina Huang uses bright, bold colors to show your buddy’s personality. She works from photos, so don’t stress about Fido sitting still for hours on end!

18. Teafco Argo Airline Approved Pet Carrier ($102): This gorgeous, airline-safe carrier is sure to make your pet’s travels smooth and comfy. If you’d like something with a little more “leg room,” try the Sherpa Deluxe ($46).

19. Fido’s Make Your Own Dog Cookie Mix ($10): This DIY dog biscuit mix is perfect for when you want to give your pooch a present with a handmade touch. You don’t have to be a pro baker to turn this all-natural mix into crave-worthy treats: simply add water! It also comes with a bone shaped cookie cutter—how cute!

20. Autumn Mini Plaid Dog Bow Tie Collar ($43): Prove to the world that you’ve got a truly dashing dog with these adorable bow tie collars. They’re available in a number of colors and patterns, or without the bow tie at all.

21. Heated K&H Outdoor Kitty House ($110): Keep your cat out of the chill zone with this heated abode. It’s waterproof design ensures that it will keep your cute kitty warm both inside or outside.

22. Freezy Pups Kit ($20): It may not be warm outside right now, but your pup will thank you for this present come summer time! It’s the ultimate way to make delicious, homemade ice pops for pups.

23. Cat Clouds Shelf ($112): This is a great gift for cats who like to climb. Keep them off the curtains with these stylish, faux sheep skin-lined shelves!

24. Found My Animal Rescue Collar ($52): This bright orange rope collarr is made by a company that seeks to raise awareness about dog adoption and fostering (orange is the official color of animal awareness!). If you’d like, you can also grab the matching leash ($50).

25. Cozy Cave Pet Bed ($60+): This snuggly bed will keep pets big and small happy and snug—how cozy does this little guy look?

26. Hi-Lo Scratcher ($79): Keep the claws off of the couch while give your feline an acceptable scratching place of her very own. You’ll both be happier with the results!

27. Advantek Country Barn Dog House ($300): Let your pampered pup go glamping with this luxurious elevated dog house. This barn-like structure is bug and weather resistant, making it the perfect outdoor hideaway. Need something smaller to fit in your yard? Try this little barn house ($120).

28. Porter Woll Coat ($60): With this warm wool coat, your dog will be even happier on long walks in the breezy hills or through crisp snow. Or just dress him up for a dapper day indoors!

29. Power Pet Electronic Pet Door ($370): Electronic pet doors will let your pet move freely in and out but keep other animals safely outdoors. It’s a great option for pets left alone during the day.

30. Snoozer Bike Basket ($50): Here’s another means to bike your pet from point A to point B. This quilted basket will give smaller animals a comfy ride and great view as you cruise down Main St.

What are you eyeing for your furry friend this year? Did we miss any rad pet gifts? Tell us in the comments below!

Who says thoughtful gifts have to come with a hefty price tag? With a little creativity (and even more searching online), you can find some pretty neat gifts under $15 that are sure to impress. These budget-friendly finds pack a big personality into a small price.

Check out the 16 best gifts under $15:

These are our top favorite gifts under $15!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Bistro Tile Monogram Mug

Nothing beats a personalized gift. Even if it's just their initial on a stylish mug like this one, they're gonna love it. Morning coffees will never be the same!

Anthropologie

Daily Practice Athletic Icon Socks

These socks will allow your giftee to truly start their day off with a smile. They're perfect for workouts, walks, or even just lazy days spent at home.

Flewd

Flewd Ache-Erasing Bath Soak

This bath soak is specially designed to work out and relieve tight knots in muscles and achy joints – the perfect gift under $15 for your pals who are always nagging about their back pain.

Amazon

Compendium ThoughtFulls Pop-Open Cards

This deck of thoughtful pop-open cards delivers 30 different inspiring messages that are sure to brighten anyone's day.

Amazon

Tony's Chocolonely Chocolate Bar Variety Pack

This sustainably-made chocolate that comes in cheery rainbow packaging is an instant boost (sugar rush included) for anyone's holiday season. You could even divide up this 6-pack among different family members and friends for a tasty stocking stuffer.

Anthropologie

Capri Blue Mini Volcano Hand Cream

This stuff smells like heaven. Now, with this travel-size tube, they can take Capri Blue's iconic Volcano scent anywhere.

Urban Outfitters

Craighill Wilson Brass Keyring

For the always put-together and design forward, this brass keyring pushes the boundaries of what you thought you knew about carabiners.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Sprinkle the magic of Christmas into every seasonal activity by creating some festive Christmas nail designs! Whether you like to lean towards the traditional reds and greens or prefer to think colorfully outside the box, the polishes and Christmas nail designs below will set your mood and nail look right. Winter nails don't have to be drab – from star-studded nail art to bejeweled nail beds, we've got just the inspo for you.

Christmas Nail Colors

Amazon

essie 'Off Tropic'

You can't get your dream Christmas nail designs done without some stellar nail polishes! If your look involves a deep green, this shiny pick will help you pull it off easily. Use it to coat the entire nail for a sultry seasonal mani.

Amazon

OPI Opaque Light White & Gray Shimmer Nail Polish

With Christmas comes cold, and this nail polish screams icy. Wear it alone or apply it over a traditional Christmas color like red or green!

Amazon

OPI Infinite Shine 'Bubble Bath'

This baby pink will look gorgeous as a solid coat for Christmas-y dates and dinner parties.

Amazon

ILNP 'Ruby'

It's red. It's glittery. It's perfect for the holidays!

Amazon

Essie 'Winter Trend'

Spending Christmas with your besties or roommates? It's time for you to have your first 'Pinkmas' with the sparkly magenta nails to match!

Amazon

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri 'White on Time'

A super solid white nail polish, alongside a thin nail art brush, can be used to paint snowmen, gift wrap, or snowflakes like some of our featured Christmas nail designs depict.

Amazon

RARJSM Holographic Gel Polish

For the lazy gal manicurists, this holographic polish will make any light reflect off your nails which is the point during Christmas!

Amazon

essie 'U Wish'

Embrace the holidays with this fiery red that defies expectations of what a Christmas color should be.

Amazon

Butter London Patent Shine Nail Polish

This one color will work excellently for minimalist Christmas nail designs – use it to dot, stripe, or wear it on its own.

Amazon

Revlon 'Iced Mauve'

Sparkles are a must for Christmas, which is why we're heavily eyeing this potent pink.

Christmas Nails Inspo

Nataszija / July Ninety Six

Nifty-Gifty Gems

Use small nail gems of any color to infuse your Christmas nail designs with festive energy. We're loving red in particular because it just feels luxurious!

Brydie/Instagram

Deep Red Elegance

The bold red French tips, in combination with some art deco-inspired golden stars, can really bring your seasonal mani to the next level.

Charlotte Herberts/Instagram

Colorful Christmas Stars

Use a stencil or freehand these tiny stars in different chrome nail colors for a more jolly vibe this year.

Bryony Howell/Instagram

(Gift) Wrap It Up

A nail art brush can be used to paint on cutie little Christmas bows like this silvery one!

(via )

Oliwia Krauz/Instagram

Classic Colors

Multicolor nails are not dead – take the trend further for the holidays by crafting your look with a mix of whites, golds, greens, and reds.

Melou's Nails/Instagram

Let It Shine

For an understated (yet still spirited) Christmas manicure, glitter will be your go-to. We love the gradient effect that this hand has on!

Peachi Nails/Instagram

Merry & Bright

Tiny star details are sure to turn heads this Christmas! You could use any hue, but a standout gold like this one really makes your nails pop!

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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated

With so many new Christmas movies piling up left and right, our watch list is getting longer and longer every year. If you're having decision fatigue, just know: you're not alone! Thankfully, we can use the stars to guide us when we're feeling overwhelmed — even when it comes to what we queue up on our TVs next! So instead of letting your Christmas watch list (that's honestly longer than Santa's naughty and nice list) get you dow, here's which Christmas movie you should put on right now, based on your zodiac sign!

Scroll down to find out which Christmas movie you should watch, based on your zodiac sign!

Twentieth Century Fox | Freevee

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Die Hard

Okay, starting this list off controversially (but strong), Aries you should definitely watch Die Hard. I'm almost positive you've been headstrong enough to tell a friend (or two) that this IS a Christmas movie, actually. And TBH, I think you're right! Although it may be a little intense for the Rudolph-loving, Frosty-watching crowd, you know what it's really all about: Bruce Willis straight up saving Christmas.

EXmas

You can't help that you're charming, Aries. Your fiery personality just sticks, lighting up the room around you — even when that room is full of your ex-boyfriend's family. Oh, and when it comes to a challenge? Yeah, you never turn those down. Throw this on for a good, holiday-filled laugh...and that little bit of heart that you totally love, too.

Twentieth Century Fox | Paramount Pictures

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Home Alone

Let's face it: being home alone is honestly your dream come true. You know it, I know it, the stars know it. And while you could probably do without two goons skulking around your place, you always find a way to make your house a home, no matter the situation. If you're already picturing eating pizza in a limo, drinking Coke out of a wine glass...I'm honestly not surprised. Live that luxe life, sweet Taurus.

Last Holiday

Queen Latifah's Last Holiday is quite honestly one of the most Taurus movies of all time, TBH. Georgia Bird does everything she can to curate her life, saving money, staying home, and keeping to herself as much as possible. So when she finds out she's only got a short amount of time to live? She decides it's time to expand beyond the four walls of her home and explore life — and the world — around her. I know you love to curate your life, working hard to make it as comfortable and wonderful as possible at home, but this is a good reminder that there's so much more out there for you, dear Taurus. Chase after it!

Paramount Pictures | Netflix

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

White Christmas

The duality of Gemini is definitely best summed up with the classic Christmas movie, White Christmas. While I obviously don't subscribe to the belief that you have two personalities, two faces, or any of those other Gemini stereotypes, I do think you have the ability to juggle the many truths that life has to offer. So it makes sense that you could relate to the two couples in this film, working their butts off to save the Vermont inn (I see your work ethic, babe!) and trying to understand their feelings for one another.

Our Little Secret

Remember what I said about duality? Well this plays right into that! When Avery and Logan — former fiancés — show up to Christmas celebrations, they realize they're new significant others are actually siblings...yikes! While they attempt to hide this from the family, obviously hilarity ensues, making them question how they even ended up in this scenario in the first place. While I don't think you want to keep secrets, I do think your ability to hold space for more than one truth could definitely help you out in this scenario — but your true heart would win out in the end, just like this movie!

Universal Pictures

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

The Holiday

You've got a lotta heart, Cancer, and so does this iconic Christmas movie. The hopeless romantic in you would already love the idea of a house swap (how dreamy!) between a big U.S. city and the quaint English countryside — and when you add in the dual romances...this is just too perfect for you! You'll especially resonate with Jack Black and Kate Winslet's characters and all their absolutely adorableness.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Empathy is the name of your game, and I just know you'd understand that there's more to the Grinch than meets the eye. While he stomps around, loathing everything, you'd be able to comprehend all that loathing is the need for more loving. So when his heart grows three sizes bigger? Yeah, yours will swell too!

New Line Cinema | Netflix

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Elf

You've got a big personality, and you know it, Leo. You can't help bringing your lively energy to every space you occupy — much like Buddy! Your larger-than-life, excitable — and at times, campy — personality matches the vibe of this movie perfectly. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll consider eating spaghetti and syrup just for the gag. All around, Elf is great watch for you this holiday season!

Falling For Christmas

If you resonated with London Tipton as a little girl, this one's for you. I mean, you exude heiress energy (whether you actually are or not), so you'd definitely understand Sierra Belmont's plight. What's so wrong for wanting the finer things in life?! In all seriousness, while you could definitely relate to her princess behavior (in a much more down-to-earth, likable way of course), I also know you find joy wherever you're at — just like Sierra does after losing her memory. This cheesy watch is definitely a must for you!

Netflix | Columbia Pictures

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Love Hard

You take life pretty seriously, so it's no surprise you would take dating — and finding your 'perfect match' — with the same amount of severity. It's not to say that you don't know how to be fun and frivolous when you want to be, but you just can't help but attempt to approach life's bigger milestones with a gravity that others don't. So, like Natalie, I know you'd be shocked to find out you've been catfished...but still wonder what could be, and if they're really your other half.

Little Women (1994)

Your determination and fervor simply are Jo March, my Virgo darling. Much like our heroine, you see the world as conquerable, taking every challenge you can and totally overcoming any obstacles that dare get in your way. And while this may not exactly be a Christmas movie, I know the March girls' Christmas celebration will totally get you in the spirit!

Walt Disney Pictures | Apple TV+

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Eloise at Christmastime

You are all pretty and pink and bows and beauty, little Libra. I know you love to make everything look (and feel) perfect around you, so Eloise at Christmastime is the adorable aesthetic watch you could ever want. You get the stunning Plaza Hotel, New York City, and Eloise's eclectic princess behavior. And with Julie Andrews, Gavin Creel, Christine Baranski — what more could you ask for?!

A Charlie Brown Christmas

With aesthetics in mind, nothing is more aesthetic than this Christmas classic. I know you're totally loving the Snoopy renaissance right now, with all its cutesy glory, so A Charlie Brown Christmas is definitely the watch for you. It's a total mood setter, perfect for your next cozy night in, or to have on in the background of your impeccable holiday party I'm sure you're throwing. And that nostalgic, dreamy music? Yeah, this is totally you.

Walt Disney Pictures | Netflix

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

The Santa Clause

You've got a rich interior life, dear Scorpio, much like that of Scott Calvin — AKA Santa Claus. You like to keep things close to the chest, so if you ended up accidentally becoming Santa Claus, I just know you'd handle that precious secret like a pro. And though this definitely speaks to your ability to compartmentalize, I don't wanna discredit your soft, sweet core either. The way Scott, his son, and the whole crew find joy in the chaos that became Christmas will definitely warm your very guarded heart.

Holidate

It can be hard to let people in, so when it comes to cuffing season — and the holidays that follow — it tends to be really frustrating for you when you have to dodge all your family's pesky personal questions. So I am suuuuure you'll understand where Sloane and Jackson are coming from when they decide to pretend they're dating one year. Except the thing with committing to the bit? You might get a little swept up in it all. Definitely watch this one for a cheesy Christmas romance — and a Kristin Chenoweth moment!

Revolution Studios Distribution Company | New Line Cinema

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Christmas With The Kranks

My jet-setting Sagittarius, you are incredibly likely to pull a Kranks and 'cancel' Christmas for a nice, tropical vacation — assuming you haven't already! You can't help it, though. You dread monotony, you crave adventure, and you love to be a little (a lot) impulsive. While it may not be wise to totally cancel Christmas on your loved ones this year, why not watch the Kranks attempt it instead?

Four Christmases

I know you don't only travel, Sagittarius, but there's no denying the urge to buy a plane ticket is strong with you. Like Kate and Brad, I could totally see you having to settle for your family's many, many different Christmas celebrations after your travel plans don't pan out. But being home for the holidays doesn't have to be all bad — sometimes you've got to dig deep and understand your roots so you can better soar, sweet Sag. Instead of flying off and away from it all, sit tight and lean into your present surroundings for the greatest gift of all.

Walt Disney Pictures | Hulu

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Here's the thing, if anyone could earnestly perform with a barrage of muppets, never once skimping on the serious nature of their craft á la Michael Caine, it's you Capricorn. Your work ethic is quite literally unmatched, and while that wouldn't make you an IRL Scrooge, it could make you play one like a champ — even with Gonzo going crazy in the corner. Pop this on for a sweet, silly, sentimental Christmas movie!

Happiest Season

When you've got a plan, you're gonna put it in action to the best of your abilities. But when outside factors totally throw off your groove? Well, that's not your favorite thing in the world, Capricorn. Not that you don't know how to pivot when you need to, but some obstacles are tougher to hurdle than others — like when you plan on proposing to your girlfriend...only to find out she hasn't officially come out as queer to her family. Watch Happiest Season to understand how you can set aside your plans to meet your loved ones where they're at, and ultimately find joy somewhere in the middle.

Walt Disney Pictures | NBC

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

The Nightmare Before Christmas

You're not like other girls, Aquarius...and that's more than okay! Instead of watching something cute and cozy, opt for the edge of The Nightmare Before Christmas. Sure, it could technically be a Halloween movie, but there's Santa, presents, and a sweet message to take away at the end of the day — and that's more than enough for you!

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

If you do wanna opt for a classic, then Rudolph is the way to go. Rudolph is a wave-maker, looking to disrupt the status quo and find a better world for everyone. Instead of being stuck in what makes him different, Rudolph uses his unique gifts to light up the world around him — literally — just like you!

Universal Pictures | Warner Bros.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Love, Actually

You're a dreamer, dear Pisces, and this holiday flick will stir up your inner romantic. While each person navigates their own love lives throughout the movie, you'll fantasize about your own — whether you're currently in a relationship, or hoping to be in one. I mean is there a better quote to represent you? "It seems to me that love is everywhere. If you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around." Sobs.

Polar Express

And speaking of dreaming, I know you were curious about Santa as a little one. You wonder about the world around you, and would totally find yourself in a similar scenario where you're transported on a larger-than-life journey to find the answers about the big man from the North Pole. In the end, was it all a dream, or was it real? Regardless, you know what really matters: that you keep your heart open and just believe.

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Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris are the talk of the town lately — and Ali Krieger definitely has something to say about it. The timeline of Ashlyn and Ali's divorce and Ashlyn and Sophia's relationship is messy at best, but the latter couple constantly dispel any rumor that there was overlap. For much of this narrative, Ali's been pretty silent, but it's clear she's ready to speak her truth. In a statement posted to Instagram, the soccer superstar opened up. Here's what she had to say.

See Ali Krieger's full statement about the Ashlyn Harris drama here!

  • Ali says that while she's had an "outpouring of love and support" over the last year, she's been confronted with "a wave of dishonesty and misinformation" in regards to her marriage to Ashlyn Harris.
  • Ali noted that her "unwavering priority" is to her kids, and that she requests privacy while she comes to terms with the state of her personal life right now.
  • This comes after Ashlyn Harris made comments about the dissolution of their marriage on a podcast, stating that there was a total lack of intimacy and that the cheating "is so far from the truth."

www.instagram.com

On December 3, 2024, Ali posted her statement to Instagram. She opened with, "I’m overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support I’ve received this last year. However, amidst this warmth, I’ve also had to confront a wave of dishonesty and misinformation regarding my marriage and personal life."

Ali shared that she isn't ready to make a more formal statement, but she feels "compelled to address this currently to prevent further distortion of the truth." But at the end of the day, Ali explained that her "unwavering priority" is her kids at this moment, and that she'll share more when her "heart feels ready."

She closed her statement with, "In this vulnerable time, I humbly ask for privacy and understanding from all involved, as I grapple with the profound changes in my personal life."

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for American Ballet Theatre

This comes after Ashlyn spoke on the Naked Sports with Cari Championpodcast. Ashlyn noted that she was in a relationship without intimacy, eventually leading her to ask for an open marriage as a "last attempt." She also stated that people constantly see her as a cheater, which she says is "is so far from the truth."

I guess we'll know the truth in time...but for now, this is definitely messy. Wishing both sides of this divorce peace and understanding!

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If you were on the internet at all this summer, then you're probably familiar with all the It Ends With Us cast drama. The rumored rift between director and star Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively didn't come to light until after the movie released, but Justin just revealed some brand new information that totally reframes the whole film: he almost suffered a "breakdown" while filming.

Justin Baldoni has been vocal about taking the role of Ryle, who abuses Blake Lively's Lily throughout the film, really seriously, but his latest interview with the How to Fail podcast reveals the effect of the character went way farther than anyone knew.

Keep reading to see why starring as Ryle Kincaid opposite Blake Lively in It Ends With Usaffected Justin Baldoni's mental health.

Justin Baldoni says Ryle Kincaid was "very hard" to get rid of.

Sony Pictures Releasing

When host Elizabeth Day asks about how he decompressed after playing Ryle, Justin admits the character was harder to shake than he anticipated. "That was very hard and honestly, that took a few months," he says. "I had dreams as him for a while, and it lived in my body, but I think for the most part, he's out."

And while starring in such a role is difficult on its own, he also had the job of directing the scenes he was in! "Directing is a very lonely job, I'll just be very candid," he says. "Because you are kind of at the top of this totem pole. In your moments of quiet, everybody has a thousand questions for you and also nobody wants to disturb you and you don't really have many people to talk to and you can't necessarily share your anxiety or your nervousness about something because you're also the leader."

His scenes as Ryle involved everything from romantic scenes with Blake Lively to a physical fight with Brandon Sklenar, and there were times he had to go "shake it out" away from the rest of the cast.

Justin Baldoni almost had a breakdown after filming a scene with Blake Lively.

"I've done a lot of somatic therapy so there were times when I was actually just shaking," he says. "There's a moment in the movie where Ryle finds Lily's phone and he finds a phone number and he's very jealous and he's heartbroken and he's angry and he doesn't harm her but you can see in his eyes how dangerous he is. After that scene, I had a near breakdown."

Despite the fact he plays such a "dangerous" character, Justin quickly became the most beloved cast member after the movie's release. Fans became suspicious whey they realized Blake Lively, Brandon Sklenar, and Jenny Slate didn't follow the director on Instagram (and avoided talking about him in interviews)...and then the internet came to the conclusion there was a major rift between the director and the cast (which hasn't technically been confirmed by anyone who's rumored to be involved).

Justin spent the movie's press run raising awareness for domestic violence support, while the internet quickly criticized how Blake Lively treated the film like a lighthearted rom-com, using the opportunity to promote her haircare line.

A source told People that Blake Lively felt "surprised," "vulnerable and upset"about the response to the film's press, while Justin's Jane the Virgin costar Gina Rodriguez came to Justin's defense and told People in September that "sweet, sweet soul" Justin is "my brother forever. Forever and ever."

"You know what?" Justin says. "[Gina's comments] came at a very special time for me and that meant a lot. She really showed up for me. That was really sweet...She's a sweetheart. She's family forever."

Read up on what Brandon Sklenar said about a potential It Starts With Us sequel movie.