Justin Baldoni has filed a countersuit against Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, accusing them of defamation, civil extortion, and interfering with his career.
Baldoni, the director of *It Ends With Us*, is seeking $400 million in damages,
alleging that the couple hijacked the production of the film and orchestrated a smear campaign against him.
The legal battle began with Lively’s lawsuit in December 2024, where she accused Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios,
of creating a hostile work environment and engaging in a retaliatory media campaign after she voiced concerns over alleged misconduct on set.
Lively’s complaint included accusations of sexual harassment, retaliation, and other workplace violations.
Baldoni’s countersuit claims that Reynolds accused him of being a “sexual predator” to a Hollywood agent, which he says was part of a broader effort by the couple to damage his reputation. According to the complaint, Reynolds pressured Baldoni’s agency, William Morris Endeavor (WME), to drop him as a client, although WME denies this claim.
Baldoni further accuses Reynolds of engaging in an “aggressive tirade” at a production meeting where he demanded Baldoni apologize for actions that Baldoni insists never occurred. Baldoni’s complaint suggests that the actions of Lively and Reynolds were aimed at destroying his career and personal life, and he describes their power and influence as growing increasingly evident during the making of the film.
In response to Baldoni’s accusations, Lively filed a lawsuit against him, alleging that Baldoni’s conduct on set led to a toxic environment. Lively’s legal team denied the defamation claims and argued that the legal actions against her were part of an attempt to reverse the narrative and deflect from the allegations against Baldoni.
As the legal dispute intensifies, other figures, including *It Ends With Us* author Colleen Hoover and cast members, have voiced support for Lively. Meanwhile, social media has speculated that Reynolds mocked Baldoni in his role in *Deadpool & Wolverine*, though Reynolds has not publicly commented on these rumors. Baldoni’s attorney has criticized Reynolds for allegedly not taking the allegations seriously and instead mocking the situation.
In addition to the ongoing lawsuits, Baldoni’s former publicist has filed a lawsuit against him, claiming that she was targeted in a coordinated smear campaign by Baldoni and his associates. The legal drama continues to unfold, with both sides preparing for a lengthy and contentious legal battle.
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