Blake Lively is facing backlash after naming husband Ryan Reynolds as a potential witness in her ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni. According to a new filing submitted on April 11, Lively identified several individuals she wants a jury to hear from ahead of the trial tied to the “It Ends With Us” controversy, which is expected to move forward next month. Blake Lively herself is expected to testify, along with Ryan Reynolds and Justin Baldoni.
Ryan Reynolds Among Key Witnesses In Lively-Baldoni Case
Per the filing, Reynolds is expected to testify about the film’s production and promotion, as well as the alleged retaliation and damages at the center of the case. The witness list also includes Lively’s co-stars Jenny Slate and Isabela Ferrer, along with her sister, Robyn Lively.
On Baldoni’s side, several names were also listed, including his former publicist Stephanie Jones, his former podcast co-host Liz Plank, and crisis PR executive Melissa Nathan.
Fans Slam Blake Lively For Naming Ryan Reynolds As Witness
As news of the filing spread, reactions quickly poured in online, and not all of them were supportive. “It’s a total waste of money,” one user wrote. “I feel sorry for Baldoni. Ryan Reynolds is, of course, gonna follow his wife down the rabbit hole.”
Another user accused Reynolds of being more involved than initially believed. “Ryan did insert himself with harassing emails to Sony,” they said. “He allegedly rewrote the rooftop scene per Blake. They both have revealed their true colors of how narcissistic they are. Now he is only concerned about his reputation! Too late.”
Others made it clear where their loyalty lies. “So she wants to put Ryan on the witness stand, who also slandered Justin,” someone questioned. “I’ve had enough of their games and self-importance. They have 4 children, so maybe they should focus there. I’m team Justin.”
Blake Lively Seeks Up To $300 Million As Case Heads To Trial
Blake Lively is also pursuing significant financial damages in her ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni. According to the latest filing, her legal team estimates total compensatory damages could range from roughly $142 million to nearly $300 million.
The case, which began in December 2024, centers around Lively’s allegations that Baldoni, who also directed the film, subjected her to sexual harassment and orchestrated a retaliatory smear campaign “to destroy” her reputation. Baldoni has denied the claims.
Judge Narrows Blake Lively’s Lawsuit Ahead Of Trial
The filing comes shortly after a major ruling that narrowed the scope of the lawsuit. On April 2, U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed 10 of Lively’s 13 claims, including harassment, defamation, and conspiracy. However, several key allegations, such as breach of contract and two retaliation-related claims, will still move forward to trial.
The decision has sparked ongoing tension between both sides, particularly over what evidence and witnesses should be presented in court. Baldoni’s legal team argues the ruling should limit what the jury hears, while Lively’s team maintains a broader scope is necessary to prove retaliation and damages.
“This case has always been and will remain focused on the devasting [sic] retaliation and the extraordinary steps the defendants took to destroy Blake Lively’s reputation because she stood up for safety on the set and that is the case that is going to trial,” Sigrid McCawley, a member of Lively’s legal team, said in a statement shared with PEOPLE.
They added, “For Blake Lively, the greatest measure of justice is that the people and the playbook behind these coordinated digital attacks have been exposed and are already being held accountable by other women they’ve targeted. She looks forward to testifying at trial and continuing to shine a light on this vicious form of online retaliation so that it becomes easier to detect and fight.”
Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Reportedly Eye UK Move Amid Legal Drama
Amid her ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are reportedly considering a major life change. According to reports, the couple has been quietly exploring a potential move to the United Kingdom as the high-profile case continues to unfold.
The trial is currently scheduled to begin in New York on May 18 and is expected to last approximately 15 days.