In response, Baldoni filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against the publication, asserting that the article misrepresented communications and relied heavily on Lively’s narrative.
Subsequently, on January 16, 2025, Baldoni filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist Leslie Sloane.
The suit accused them of defamation, civil extortion, and interference with contractual relations. Baldoni claimed that Lively and Reynolds attempted to take over the film’s production and, upon failing, initiated a campaign to destroy his reputation.
Pulitzer Prize Awarded to NYT Photographer for Iconic Images of Trump Assassination Attempt
Industry Repercussions and Legal Nightmare
The legal turmoil had immediate professional consequences. Baldoni was dropped by his talent agency, William Morris Endeavor, shortly after the allegations surfaced.
Additionally, Liz Plank, co-host of Baldoni’s Man Enough podcast, announced her departure, expressing support for individuals who speak out against injustice.
