Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds Ramp Up Publicity Ahead of Justin Baldoni Case

The high-profile couple is attempting to appear unbothered and happy as they head into a legal battle with the 'It Ends With Us' director.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:03pm

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An abstract close-up image featuring shattered glass and glittering sequins, conveying the high-stakes drama and glamour of the celebrity legal dispute.The high-stakes legal battle between Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and Justin Baldoni has exposed the glitz and grit of Hollywood's power dynamics.NYC Today

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have been relatively low-profile over the past year as they battle with director Justin Baldoni over the film 'It Ends With Us.' However, in the lead-up to the trial set for May 18, the couple is switching tactics and trying to appear like a happy family without a care in the world, posting on social media and making public appearances. This is seen as a classic PR tactic to project an image of having truth and justice on their side ahead of the grueling trial.

Why it matters

The legal battle between Lively, Reynolds, and Baldoni has been messy, with unflattering personal emails and texts revealed during discovery. Both Lively and Reynolds have suffered reputational damage, with Reynolds being portrayed as aggressive and entitled, and Lively being dropped by friends and seen as using her Hollywood connections as leverage. This high-profile case has shone a light on the power dynamics and challenges in the entertainment industry.

The details

Court documents have revealed that Lively filed suit against Baldoni and Wayfarer for sexual harassment on the set of 'It Ends With Us.' Unsealed texts showed Reynolds comparing the situation to the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard case, a comparison many found tone-deaf given the domestic abuse context of 'It Ends With Us.' Reynolds was also described as 'enraged' during a meeting at the couple's home, demanding an apology from Baldoni. Baldoni's legal filings accused Reynolds of wanting to 'accumulate power' over the project.

  • The trial is set for May 18, 2026.
  • In January 2024, Reynolds had a meeting at the couple's home where he demanded an apology from Baldoni.

The players

Blake Lively

An American actress who filed a lawsuit against Justin Baldoni and Wayfarer for sexual harassment on the set of 'It Ends With Us.'

Ryan Reynolds

An American actor and the husband of Blake Lively, who has been described as 'enraged' during a meeting with Baldoni and has suffered reputational damage from the case.

Justin Baldoni

An American actor, director, and producer who is involved in the legal battle with Lively and Reynolds over the film 'It Ends With Us.'

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What they’re saying

“If you ever get around to watching 'Game of Thrones,' you'll appreciate that I'm Khaleesi, and like her, I happen to have a few dragons. For better or worse, but usually better. Because my dragons also protect those I fight for. So really we all benefit from those gorgeous monsters of mine. You will too, I can promise you.”

— Blake Lively

“She did it to herself, and if she had just let him come to the premiere...none of the sleuthing would have happened.”

— Sanford Panitch, Sony Pictures president

“She's a terrorist.”

— Nicole Giannetti, Sony executive

“He called Sony executives 'f—— textbook, ineffectual elderly people with no ideas or thoughtful communication skills. Just blunt instruments with six catchphrases and about 5 key words,'”

— Ryan Reynolds

What’s next

The judge will preside over the trial between Lively, Reynolds, and Baldoni, which is set to begin on May 18, 2026.

The takeaway

This high-profile legal battle between Hollywood stars highlights the power dynamics and challenges within the entertainment industry, as well as the importance of maintaining a positive public image. The couple's attempt to appear unbothered and happy on social media is a strategic PR move as they prepare to face off against Baldoni in court.