In a controversial move, Blake Lively has subpoenaed several online critics as part of her legal battle against co-star Justin Baldoni. The subpoenas, issued in July, aim to unmask individuals Lively’s legal team alleges are part of an online campaign against her. This action comes amid a federal lawsuit concerning claims of harassment, with trial set for March. The development has drawn sharp reactions about the implications for free speech and internet privacy.
Critics and Legal Surroundings of the Lively-Baldoni Feud
The dispute between Lively and Baldoni escalated after Lively filed a lawsuit accusing Baldoni of orchestrating a retaliatory smear campaign following her complaints of sexual harassment on the set of their film It Ends With Us. The lawsuit asserts that the targeted online attacks have continued, with Lively’s attorneys serving subpoenas not only to social media platforms like X but also directly to outspoken critics such as Andy Signore, Perez Hilton, and Candace Owens.
Observers compare this case to the 2022 Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial, where Heard faced intense online harassment believed by some to have been fueled by Depp’s team, a point Depp’s legal team denies. Elaine Bredehoft, Heard’s former lawyer, supported Lively’s strategy in confronting online defamation.
I think it’s great that Blake Lively’s legal team is trying to get in front of it. How else do you fight this?
—Elaine Bredehoft, Attorney
Opposition Claims Subpoenas Intimidate Critics Rather Than Seek Justice
Many individuals targeted by the subpoenas argue that Lively’s legal efforts are an attempt to silence legitimate criticism rather than uncover evidence. Attorney John Genga, representing entertainment journalist Kjersti Flaa, voiced concern over the subpoenas, pointing out their invasive nature, especially for individuals with limited resources to challenge them.
They’re just offering their opinions like anyone else has the right to do. We think it’s invasive. It’s designed to intimidate these people, many of whom don’t have the means to fight it.
—John Genga, Attorney
A spokesperson for Lively counters these claims, maintaining that subpoenas serve only as tools to gather evidence and are not accusations of wrongdoing.
There is no silencing of content creators; they are obviously making their views known. The subpoenas to social media companies are one piece of the puzzle to connect the evidentiary dots of a campaign that was designed to leave no fingerprints.
—Spokesperson for Blake Lively
Scope and Impact of Subpoenas on Social Media Users
The subpoenas sent to Google demand account information for 16 YouTubers, including personal details that range from names and emails to IP addresses and financial information. Some targeted accounts are anonymous while others use real names, and many claim they have not communicated with either party involved in the lawsuit. Critics report feeling caught in a dispute far beyond their initial involvement.
This case has escalated to being about so much more than it was originally. Now it’s about freedom of speech on the internet.
—Kjersti Flaa, Entertainment Journalist
Personal Accounts from Critics Facing Legal Pressure
McKenzie Folks, a stay-at-home mom from Kansas who has shared opinions about the case on TikTok, describes her shock upon receiving a subpoena demanding her account information. Believing it at first to be a phishing scam, she soon realized the seriousness of Lively’s legal approach. Folks feels overwhelmed by the situation, noting that she cannot afford legal representation and had to draft her own motion to quash the subpoena.
I never talked to anybody in the industry. I’m from Kansas.
—McKenzie Folks, TikTok Content Creator
I feel like I’m in ‘The Twilight Zone.’ This is totally a scene out of a movie—some millionaire actress coming after someone. It’s very daunting.
—McKenzie Folks, TikTok Content Creator
Folks said she sided with Baldoni in the legal dispute, viewing him as an underdog mistreated by prominent figures, including Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds.
Entertainment attorney Gregory Doll criticized Lively’s decision to pursue these creators, calling it a public relations misstep that has inadvertently elevated the critics‘ platforms.
I think she is trying to kill a fly with a sledgehammer. It’s an absolute PR backfire in a profound sense.
—Gregory Doll, Attorney
Future Implications of Legal Actions Against Online Dissenters
The Blake Lively online critics subpoena effort highlights a growing tension between high-profile figures and internet voices, raising questions about the limits of free expression and legal boundaries in digital spaces. If a coordinated campaign against Lively is indeed sophisticated and bot-driven, as some legal analysts suggest, uncovering its source might be exceedingly difficult. Meanwhile, critics like Andy Signore vow to resist.
I’m going to fight them tooth and nail. This is nonsense.
—Andy Signore, Film Producer
As the case approaches trial, the outcome will likely shape ongoing debates around celebrity influence, digital harassment, and users’ rights to criticize public figures without fear of legal retribution. The unfolding lawsuit underscores the complex intersection of law, social media, and public discourse in today’s digital era.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Blake Lively have her 4th?
A. In February 2023, Lively revealed that she and Reynolds had quietly welcomed their fourth child, a son named Olin, who is two.
Q. How much does Blake Lively weight?
A. At first, losing weight seemed simple, but it wasn’t. Over 14 months, she went from 203 pounds to 143 pounds. Her journey was about more than appearance; she wanted to regain her energy, confidence, and good health.
Q. How much does Blake Lively weigh?
A. Blake shared that she put on 61 pounds during her most recent pregnancy. She admitted that shedding the weight was more challenging than expected. Starting at 203 pounds, she dedicated herself for 14 months to achieve her goal of 143 pounds.
Q. Did Blake Lively have surgery?
A. Christiana mentioned that Blake eats a balanced diet to help her look great. Her workout routine is also important for staying fit. She exercises four to five times a week, blending strength training, cardio, and functional workouts.
