Justin Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, has stated that the actor’s ongoing legal dispute with Blake Lively is unlikely to be resolved before the trial set for May 2026. During a recent episode of The Town podcast, Freedman discussed the case and its impact on Baldoni.
“Justin has been destroyed by this,” Freedman said. “This is a really serious thing, and in this day and age, the only way that you can truly get back is to prove your innocence… That’s what we’re actively working [towards]. So that may only be able to be done in a courtroom.”
Related: Blake Lively’s Legal Battle with Justin Baldoni Heats Up
Freedman dismissed host Matt Belloni’s suggestion that public interest and reputational damage to both parties might lead to a settlement. “You keep referring to it as a circus—and I get it,” he said. “But the reality is this is not a circus when you go through an experience like this.”
The legal dispute between Baldoni and Lively has escalated, with both filing lawsuits accusing each other of orchestrating smear campaigns. Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, recently sought a protective order to keep sensitive case materials private, a request that was partially approved by a judge.
Freedman argued that the order was “overboard and unnecessary,” while Lively’s legal team welcomed the decision, stating that it would “ensure the free flow of discovery material.” “With this order in place,” Lively’s legal representatives said, “Ms. Lively will move forward in the discovery process to obtain even more of the evidence that will prove her claims in Court.”
The legal battle stems from allegations surrounding the production of It Ends With Us, a 2024 film starring Lively and Baldoni. Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and claims he retaliated by launching a smear campaign to damage her reputation.
Related: Taylor Swift Fearlessly Steps Into Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni’s Legal Feud
The complaint, filed on December 20 in California, also names producer Jamey Heath, Wayfarer Studios, and its co-founder Steve Sarowitz. Lively alleges that Baldoni’s behavior on set was “disturbing” and “unprofessional,” creating a “hostile work environment.”
As both sides prepare for trial, the case continues to draw widespread media attention, with legal experts speculating on the possible ramifications for the careers of those involved.
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