Justin Baldoni's Legal Fight with Blake Lively Continues, Lawyer Confirms

Overview of the Legal Dispute

The ongoing legal battle between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, co-stars of the film 'It Ends With Us,' has taken another turn. In a recent discussion on The Megyn Kelly Show, Bryan Freedman, the attorney representing Baldoni, provided detailed insights into the case following a federal judge's decision to dismiss Baldoni's defamation lawsuit against Lively. This lawsuit stemmed from allegations and countersuits related to their professional interactions on the set of the movie, which have since escalated into a public and legal feud.

Freedman, speaking with host Megyn Kelly, emphasized that despite the dismissal of the defamation claims, the fight is far from over. The judge's ruling, handed down in a New York federal court on June 9, focused on specific legal grounds that led to the dismissal of the $400 million defamation suit. However, Freedman clarified that certain contract-related claims remain active, providing a pathway for Baldoni to continue pursuing justice in this matter.

Legal Grounds for Dismissal and Remaining Claims

At around the 5:30 mark of the video, Freedman explained the judge's rationale for dismissing the defamation lawsuit. The court found that the claims did not meet the necessary legal threshold for defamation under New York law. While this was a setback for Baldoni, Freedman stressed that the dismissal does not negate the validity of other aspects of their case. Specifically, contract-related issues are still under consideration, which could potentially lead to further legal proceedings or settlements.

Freedman noted at the 10:15 point that Baldoni remains steadfast in his resolve to address these remaining claims. The attorney hinted at the possibility of future depositions, including one potentially involving Lively herself. There was also mention of other high-profile individuals connected to Lively, such as Ryan Reynolds, who might be called to provide testimony depending on how the case unfolds. Additionally, Taylor Swift's name surfaced in connection to the broader narrative, though specifics on her involvement were not detailed in the discussion.

Impact on Justin Baldoni's Career

One of the more personal aspects discussed, around the 15:40 mark, was the toll this legal battle has taken on Baldoni's career. Freedman shared that the public nature of the feud and the serious allegations involved have undoubtedly affected Baldoni's professional standing in Hollywood. The attorney underscored that Baldoni is not only fighting for legal vindication but also to restore his reputation, which has been challenged by the accusations and media coverage surrounding the case.

Baldoni's determination to push forward, as conveyed by Freedman, reflects a commitment to clearing his name. This legal struggle is not just about financial compensation but also about addressing the personal and professional damage incurred during this highly publicized conflict.

Next Steps in the Legal Battle

Towards the latter part of the conversation, at approximately the 20:25 mark, Freedman outlined what lies ahead. He made it clear that Baldoni is prepared to go to trial if necessary, showing no inclination to settle easily with Lively. The attorney expressed confidence in their position on the remaining contract claims and suggested that depositions could be a critical next step. While no specific timeline was provided for when Lively might be deposed, Freedman indicated that preparations are underway to ensure their case remains robust.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of this case for Hollywood, where personal and professional disputes often spill into the public domain. Freedman reiterated that their focus remains on achieving a fair outcome for Baldoni, regardless of the challenges posed by the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.

Conclusion of Current Developments

As this legal saga continues, the insights provided by Bryan Freedman on The Megyn Kelly Show offer a glimpse into the complexities of navigating defamation and contract disputes in the entertainment industry. With parts of the case still active, all eyes remain on how Baldoni and his legal team will proceed against Lively. The determination to pursue trial, if needed, signals a readiness to confront these issues head-on, ensuring that Baldoni's side of the story is fully represented in court.

This case serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between personal grievances and professional conduct in Hollywood. As developments unfold, the outcome of these remaining claims could set significant precedents for how similar disputes are handled in the future.