Takeaways:
- Marvel is distancing itself from a legal battle between It Ends with Us co-stars.
- The dispute involves the Nicepool character from Deadpool & Wolverine.
- Marvel is seeking to quash a subpoena and protect confidential documents.
- The case could have implications for creative portrayals in major franchises.
A behind-the-scenes legal clash is brewing among Hollywood heavyweights—and Marvel wants no part of it.
Marvel Entertainment has formally requested to be excluded from an escalating courtroom battle between actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, who starred together in the upcoming film adaptation of It Ends with Us. At the heart of the dispute is the portrayal of the character Nicepool in Deadpool & Wolverine, Marvel’s highly anticipated 2024 blockbuster led by Ryan Reynolds.
Why Marvel Is Involved—and Why It Wants Out
In recently filed court documents, Marvel petitioned Judge Lewis J. Liman of the Southern District of New York to quash a subpoena issued by Baldoni’s production company, Wayfarer Studios. The subpoena seeks internal documentation regarding the creation and portrayal of the Nicepool character, alleging that it is tied to personal and potentially defamatory content.
Marvel’s letter urges the court not only to dismiss the subpoena but also to grant a protective order that would prevent any confidential materials from being disclosed by involved parties or third parties.
“Marvel requests that the Court stay the return date of the Subpoena and related document requests until after the Court decides the pending motion to dismiss of Counterclaim Defendant Ryan Reynolds,” the company stated.
Baldoni’s Side: Claims of Harassment
Actor-director Justin Baldoni, 41, claims that the Nicepool character—portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively’s real-life husband—was crafted in a way that amounted to bullying and mockery. The character refers to Ladypool, a role portrayed by Lively, using language that Baldoni’s team suggests may carry personal subtext.
Baldoni’s legal team opposed Marvel’s motion, accusing the entertainment giant of avoiding transparency. According to a statement from his lawyers:
“Although we attempted in good faith to address Marvel’s purported concerns about confidentiality and relevancy, Marvel’s counsel refused to engage in that discussion.”
The statement further alleges that Marvel’s legal counsel dismissed the subpoena’s broad scope and instead asked what documents the Wayfarer Parties “really” needed—specifically those involving the development, portrayal, and modification of Nicepool, and any documentation relating directly to Justin Baldoni.
What’s at Stake for the Industry?
While Marvel may view this as a nuisance case, the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for how character portrayals in fictional works intersect with real-life relationships and reputations in the entertainment industry. If Baldoni’s claims of targeted character development are taken seriously, it may set a precedent that creatives in Hollywood must consider when shaping characters inspired by real events or individuals.
For Marvel, the priority appears to be clear: protect its intellectual property, shield confidential development documents, and steer clear of personal legal conflicts involving its collaborators.
About the Film
Deadpool & Wolverine is one of 2024’s most anticipated films, featuring the return of Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. The addition of Nicepool and Ladypool brought excitement and curiosity—until now. With the spotlight shifting from cinema to courtroom, fans and industry watchers alike are waiting to see how this saga unfolds.
