On Monday, a federal judge dismissed Justin Baldoni’s high-profile countersuit against Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and their publicist, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle tied to allegations of extortion and defamation. The Ryan Reynolds lawsuit dismissal in Justin Baldoni countersuit also included the rejection of Baldoni’s separate $250 million claim against The New York Times, closing a major chapter in disputes alleging reputational harm and misconduct.
Judge Throws Out Baldoni’s Claims Against Lively, Reynolds, and The New York Times
Judge Lewis J. Liman ruled against the It Ends With Us director and Wayfarer Studios, stating that their amended complaint did not meet the legal standard required for defamation claims against Reynolds, Lively, or their associates. Liman’s decision detailed how the claims failed to show the necessary knowledge or reckless disregard for falsehood by Reynolds, Sloane, or The Times when making public statements regarding Baldoni or Wayfarer Studios’ alleged involvement in a smear campaign or sexual misconduct.
While Lively was accused only of statements contained in her CRD complaint, Liman clarified that these statements carry privilege under the law. Reynolds and publicist Leslie Sloane were alleged to have made additional accusations, but the judge’s review found insufficient evidence that they knowingly made false claims. The court’s order stressed that, as such, the entirety of the amended complaint was to be dismissed, halting Baldoni’s attempt to pursue substantial damages.
Potential for Further Legal Action Remains
Although the judge dismissed all current claims, Liman allowed Baldoni and his legal team the opportunity to amend and refile claims relating to breach of implied covenant and tortious interference with contract. The parties have until June 23 to submit any revised complaints should they opt to press forward in the case.
Baldoni’s legal representation did not immediately issue a comment following the decision. This dismissal places immediate pressure on his team to determine whether to continue pursuing action in this contentious dispute.
Background of the Lawsuit and Media Coverage
In December, The New York Times published an article outlining Blake Lively’s sexual harassment and smear campaign allegations against Justin Baldoni. Lively responded soon after with her own lawsuit. Baldoni denied the accusations and countersued in January, targeting Lively, Reynolds, Sloane, and the media outlet for defamation, extortion, and privacy violations.
The New York Times stood by its reporting, emphasizing the rigorous documentation supporting its article.
“we quote accurately and at length in the article.”
—The Times, Statement. Following the controversy, the publication affirmed its intention to defend itself robustly in court, stating,
“We plan to vigorously defend against the lawsuit.”
—The Times, Statement
The trial concerning Lively’s suit against Baldoni is not scheduled to commence until March 2026, leaving both parties potentially navigating further motions and legal maneuvering in the coming months.
Continued Scrutiny Over High-Profile Parties
This decision impacts Ryan Reynolds, Leslie Sloane, Blake Lively, and The New York Times, each central figures in a legal saga affecting public reputations and industry relationships. The dismissal marks a setback for Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios, whose claims of extortion, defamation, and a targeted smear campaign were judged to be unsubstantiated under current law. The controversy has drawn significant attention in media circles throughout New York and has been closely followed by entities such as Rolling Stone and legal teams alike.
With the door still open for amended claims and a major trial scheduled for 2026, the Ryan Reynolds lawsuit dismissal in Justin Baldoni countersuit does not signify an end to the notoriety or complexity of this legal feud. Observers will continue to watch for the next developments as both sides consider their legal options and public responses in a high-stakes battle over reputation and legal liability.
