Ryan Reynolds Seeks to Dismiss Justin Baldoni’s Lawsuit: Legal Battle Heats Up.
Ryan Reynolds Files Motion to End Legal Drama with Justin Baldoni
Ryan Reynolds has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit from actor and director Justin Baldoni, who is suing him and his wife, Blake Lively. The legal battle stems from accusations of defamation, and Reynolds is pushing to have the case thrown out of court. According to court documents obtained by Lawyer Monthly, Reynolds, 48, argues that Baldoni’s lawsuit doesn’t specify any defamatory statements made by him. This is the latest development in an ongoing legal drama that has caught the public’s attention.
Blake and Ryan Reynolds
Legal Defense: No Defamation Claims in Baldoni’s Lawsuit
Reynolds’ legal team, led by attorneys Mike Gottlieb and Esra Hudson, argues that Baldoni’s case lacks merit. The motion to dismiss highlights that Baldoni’s lawsuit is based on an alleged private statement where Reynolds supposedly referred to Baldoni as a “predator.” However, Reynolds’ lawyers contend that such a statement can only be defamatory if Baldoni can prove Reynolds didn’t believe it to be true. The motion points out that Baldoni’s own actions and statements—including his past admission of mistreating women—could support Reynolds’ belief in the claim.
“Mr. Reynolds has a First Amendment right to express his opinion about Mr. Baldoni, particularly when it comes to personal grievances that were publicly aired by others,” Reynolds’ legal team argues. This defense emphasizes the importance of free speech, especially when addressing serious allegations.
Justin with wife Emily Baldoni
A Spouse’s Accusation: Blake Lively’s Role in the Legal Battle
Blake Lively, who has been a key figure in this legal drama, made accusations against Baldoni in December 2024, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation during their time working together on the film It Ends With Us. Lively’s complaint also accuses Baldoni of attempting to smear her reputation. While Baldoni has denied the allegations, the lawsuit has sparked a fierce back-and-forth between the two sides.
Lively’s accusations are central to the case, and Reynolds has come to his wife’s defense. He emphasizes that his statements about Baldoni are rooted in Lively’s own experiences and the public revelations about Baldoni’s behavior. This adds further complexity to the legal situation and has drawn significant public attention to the dispute.
The $400 Million Lawsuit: Baldoni Fights Back
In response to the allegations, Baldoni filed a countersuit against Reynolds, Lively, and Lively’s publicist. The countersuit, filed in January 2025, claims defamation, civil extortion, and false light invasion of privacy, seeking $400 million in damages. Baldoni’s legal team argues that the actions taken by the couple have caused significant harm to his reputation and career.
However, Reynolds and Lively continue to deny the claims, and Lively’s publicist has requested to be removed from the lawsuit. Despite the legal back-and-forth, the trial is still scheduled for May 2026, with no settlement in sight.
Reynolds’ Public Defense: “Frivolous” Case
In addition to filing a motion to dismiss, Reynolds’ spokesperson publicly dismissed Baldoni’s legal claims as “frivolous” and without merit. The spokesperson further emphasized that Baldoni’s lawsuit is an attempt to discredit Reynolds, who has long been praised for his public persona as a supportive partner to Lively. Reynolds’ legal team expects the lawsuit to be dismissed and is looking to recover attorney fees and costs related to the case.
“The claims against Mr. Reynolds are an attempt to shame him for being the kind of man Mr. Baldoni has built his brand pretending to be—a man ‘confident enough to listen’ to the woman in his life,” Reynolds’ spokesperson said. This bold statement underscores the ongoing tension between the two parties and the stakes involved.
Looking Ahead: Trial Scheduled for 2026
The legal battle between Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and Justin Baldoni continues to unfold, with the next key date set for May 2026. The public interest in this case remains high, especially given the accusations, countersuits, and significant reputations at play. While Reynolds’ legal team is confident in a dismissal, the prolonged nature of the case means that the drama will likely continue to play out in the courts and the media for some time.
As Reynolds and Lively continue to defend themselves, many will be watching closely to see if the lawsuit is dismissed or if it will go to trial. The stakes are high for all parties involved, and the outcome could have a significant impact on their personal and professional lives.
A Legal Saga That Keeps the Public on Edge
The ongoing legal dispute between Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and Justin Baldoni has captivated the public, with high-profile accusations, countersuits, and the possibility of a lengthy trial. As the case continues to develop, it’s clear that both sides are preparing for a long legal battle. While Reynolds’ legal team is confident the lawsuit will be dismissed, it remains to be seen how the courts will rule. With a trial scheduled for 2026, this case is far from over, and the world will be watching as it unfolds.
