Justin Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, has addressed questions surrounding the actor and director’s $400 million defamation lawsuit against Blake Lively, explaining why his client chose not to file an amended complaint.

Baldoni’s $400 Million Lawsuit Dismissed

In June 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed Justin Baldoni’s defamation lawsuit against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist. The suit, originally filed by Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, included claims of extortion, defamation, and a separate $250 million defamation case against The New York Times.

Baldoni’s legal team had a deadline of June 23, 2025, to amend claims for breach of implied covenant and tortious interference. However, no amended complaint was filed, and the case was formally concluded on October 31, 2025.

Why the Lawsuit Was Not Amended

Bryan Freedman, Baldoni’s lawyer, told PEOPLE that the decision was strategic. “The truth regarding this case continuously and completely gets distorted in the media,” Freedman said. “Even something as simple as a procedural update has resulted in a total mischaracterization. No deadlines were missed. Our clients chose not to amend their complaint to preserve appeal rights.”

Freedman also emphasized that Baldoni’s team is focused on defending against Lively’s claims, stating, “We remain fully committed to pursuing the truth through every legal and factual avenue available and look forward to our day in court.”

Blake Lively’s Response

Blake Lively was the only party to respond to Judge Liman’s notice on October 17, requesting a final judgment while keeping her request for legal fees active, which the judge approved. On Instagram, Lively reflected on the dismissal of the lawsuit, noting, “While the suit against me was defeated, so many don’t have the resources to fight back.”

Background on the Legal Dispute

The legal battle began in December 2024 when Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, alleging misconduct on set and a retaliatory smear campaign—claims Baldoni has denied. A trial for the ongoing lawsuit has been scheduled for March 2026.