Takeaways:
- Bryan Freedman, lawyer for Justin Baldoni, criticizes Ryan Reynolds for attempting to dismiss a defamation lawsuit.
- Reynolds’ legal team argues that his statements are protected under the First Amendment.
- Blake Lively has also filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, citing emotional distress.
Ryan Reynolds’ Legal Battle Heats Up: Baldoni’s Lawyer Responds Strongly
Hollywood’s legal drama just took another intense turn. Justin Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, has publicly slammed Ryan Reynolds for attempting to dismiss a defamation lawsuit, accusing the ‘Deadpool’ star of trying to evade responsibility.
Freedman’s Fiery Statement
Freedman argues that Reynolds’ legal motion dismisses legitimate claims as mere “hurt feelings,” implying a disregard for bullying and accountability in the industry.
“After lighting a match, Mr. Reynolds now seeks to run from the flames. It won’t work.” – Bryan Freedman
The lawsuit, filed by The Wayfarer Parties, claims that Reynolds defamed Baldoni, the director of It Ends with Us. Freedman maintains that the allegations against Reynolds are serious and credible.
Ryan Reynolds’ Legal Defense
Reynolds, 48, has rejected the lawsuit, arguing that his statements were not defamatory. His attorneys, Mike Gottlieb and Esra Hudson, claim that Reynolds’ remarks—allegedly calling Baldoni a “predator”—are legally protected opinions, not false statements.
“That is not defamation unless they can show that Mr. Reynolds did not believe that statement to be true.” – Reynolds’ legal team
Additionally, Reynolds’ team insists that the lawsuit contradicts itself, suggesting that Reynolds genuinely believed his statement.
Free Speech or Defamation?
This case has sparked a debate about freedom of speech in Hollywood. Reynolds’ lawyers argue that he has a First Amendment right to express his opinions, a right that should apply equally to those accusing him of wrongdoing.
“Mr. Reynolds has a First Amendment right to express his opinion of Mr. Baldoni.” – Reynolds’ legal team
Blake Lively’s Lawsuit Against Baldoni
Adding another layer to the controversy, Reynolds’ wife, Blake Lively, has also filed a separate lawsuit against Baldoni, claiming that he harassed her on set during the filming of It Ends with Us.
Lively, 37, accuses Baldoni of causing her severe emotional distress and hopes her lawsuit will expose harmful industry practices.
“I hope my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics.” – Blake Lively
Baldoni has denied all allegations, calling them “categorically false” through his legal team.
What’s Next?
With both lawsuits gaining traction, this Hollywood dispute is far from over. The outcome of these legal battles could set new precedents for defamation cases, free speech, and industry accountability.
Will Reynolds succeed in dismissing the defamation lawsuit, or will Baldoni’s legal team push forward? Stay tuned as the entertainment industry watches this case unfold.
