Ryan Reynolds has addressed allegations made by Justin Baldoni, claiming the actor “aggressively berated” him during an at-home meeting. Baldoni alleged that the incident stemmed from accusations of “fat-shaming” Blake Lively, Reynolds’ wife, during the filming of It Ends With Us. Reynolds has denied the claims, maintaining that while he was upset, his behavior was not aggressive.
The Allegation and Response
Baldoni, known for his work on Jane the Virgin, filed a lawsuit against Reynolds, asserting that the Deadpool actor yelled at him in retaliation for alleged comments regarding Lively’s postpartum weight. These accusations followed a complaint Lively reportedly filed with the California Civil Rights Department, alleging Baldoni made inappropriate remarks about her weight on set. Baldoni described the alleged confrontation as “traumatic,” claiming it occurred at Reynolds and Lively’s New York City penthouse during what was supposed to be a production-related meeting.
A source close to Reynolds has contested Baldoni’s account. Speaking to TMZ, the source admitted Reynolds was “angry and stern” but denied that he yelled or engaged in any form of aggressive behavior. They emphasized that Reynolds addressed the situation in a direct but controlled manner. Furthermore, the source alleged that Baldoni was not caught off guard by the meeting, contrary to his claims, and that those present were aware the conversation would include criticism of his actions.
Additional Lawsuits and Allegations
This incident is part of a broader legal battle involving both parties. Baldoni has filed a $250 million libel lawsuit against the New York Times in connection to coverage of the situation. His legal filing also targets his crisis manager, Melissa Nathan, his publicist, Jennifer Abel, and several others. Baldoni claims these parties perpetuated a smear campaign against him following Lively’s allegations.
Blake Lively, meanwhile, has initiated her own legal action against Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios. Her lawsuit accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment, emotional distress, loss of wages, breach of contract, and retaliatory tactics. Lively has been vocal about her reasons for taking legal action, stating that she hopes to expose what she describes as harmful “retaliatory tactics” aimed at silencing individuals who speak out against workplace misconduct.
Contrasting Accounts
Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, has issued a statement denying Lively’s allegations, asserting that her claims are part of an effort to “fix her tarnished reputation.” The lawsuit has sparked a heated debate about workplace dynamics in the entertainment industry, with both sides presenting conflicting narratives.
While Baldoni claims he was blindsided by the alleged confrontation at the Reynolds-Lively residence, sources close to the couple have refuted this, describing the meeting as deliberate and necessary. Additionally, Baldoni’s assertion that other celebrities witnessed the incident has been dismissed by those reportedly present.
Implications for the Entertainment Industry
These ongoing legal disputes highlight issues of workplace behavior, accountability, and the power dynamics within Hollywood. Both Reynolds and Lively have received significant public support, while Baldoni has maintained his innocence and challenged the claims made against him.
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Source: TMZ, New York Times