Johnny Depp’s Attorney Reacts to Justin Baldoni’s Aggressive Approach in Blake Lively Lawsuit
In the ongoing lawsuit drama involving Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, Johnny Depp’s attorney, Benjamin Chew, has weighed in on Baldoni’s approach to the case. Chew, who previously represented Depp in a defamation trial against Amber Heard, described Baldoni’s tactics as “very aggressive” during a recent podcast episode.
Chew noted that while it is unusual to take such a bold stance before a hearing, Baldoni and his team likely carefully vetted their approach before launching a website with an amended complaint and a timeline of events to address Lively’s sexual harassment allegations. Chew, who is not directly involved in either lawsuit, expressed surprise at the aggressive nature of Baldoni’s response.
Addressing the public posting of legal pleadings, Chew acknowledged that it is within bounds as these are part of the public record. However, he emphasized that the approach taken by Baldoni’s team is novel and bold. Chew refrained from taking sides in the case but highlighted the importance of presenting concrete evidence, such as video and text messages, which can be more impactful than mere assertions from counsel.
The dispute between Lively and Baldoni began during the premiere of their film “It Ends With Us” in August 2024. Speculations about tension between the co-stars arose when they did not appear together during the film’s press tour. Lively eventually filed a lawsuit in December 2024, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment, creating a hostile work environment, and causing emotional distress.
In response, Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, dismissed Lively’s claims as false and salacious. Freedman alleged that Lively’s lawsuit was an attempt to salvage her reputation and revive a negative narrative surrounding the film’s production. He further accused Lively of making threats and demands during filming that led to disruptions in the film’s release.
Subsequently, Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and Lively’s publicist, Leslie Sloane. This legal action included charges of civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy. Freedman underscored the abundance of evidence supporting their claims and criticized Lively for misrepresenting the truth.
In response to the legal actions taken against her, Lively condemned Baldoni and his associates, accusing them of employing tactics aimed at retaliating against her harassment allegations. Lively’s legal team criticized attempts to shift the focus onto her and highlighted positive aspects of her involvement in the film’s production.
The heated legal battle between Lively and Baldoni is scheduled for a trial commencing on March 9, 2026. The outcome of this high-profile case remains uncertain as both parties continue to present conflicting narratives and evidence.
Overall, the unfolding legal saga involving Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively is characterized by complex accusations, legal maneuvers, and public scrutiny. As the case progresses, the spotlight remains on the clash between these two Hollywood figures and the implications of their legal showdown.