Justin Baldoni is pushing to have Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ substantial net worth considered in their upcoming trial.
In court documents submitted Friday, the 42-year-old filmmaker challenged Lively’s earlier claim that her and Reynolds’ finances are irrelevant to the case and could risk “influencing or triggering biases against wealthy individuals” among jurors.
Per legal filings obtained by TMZ, Baldoni argues that money is central to the dispute because the actress has claimed she lost millions in earnings due to his alleged “smear campaign” against her.
© John NacionBaldoni, who appeared alongside Lively in the 2024 drama It Ends With Us, also contends that Reynolds’ income should be taken into account. He claims Lively “typically does not accept acting opportunities which conflict with Reynolds’ acting schedule – particularly when he is able to garner a higher income for his movies than she can.”
The pair’s combined net worth is estimated at $400 million.
Previously, however, a judge dismissed 10 of Lively’s 13 claims against Baldoni, including her defamation allegation, undercutting the argument that his actions impacted her earnings.
According to the outlet, Baldoni has also asked that Reynolds’ Nicepool character from Deadpool & Wolverine be included as evidence during the trial set for May. He alleges the character is meant to mock him, reinforcing his claims of bullying.
© GC ImagesHis legal team believes the portrayal could demonstrate to jurors that his public image was attacked, prompting him to seek crisis management support.
Earlier this week, Lively filed motions accusing Baldoni’s team of trying to overwhelm the trial with “gossip,” personal attacks, and financial details about her and her husband, which she argues are irrelevant and could unfairly sway a jury.
She is asking the judge to block references to negative media coverage or online commentary labeling her a “mean girl,” private text exchanges among Hollywood executives suggesting she is difficult, and footage from Deadpool & Wolverine.
© GettyHer attorneys maintain that much of the material Baldoni’s side wants to introduce qualifies as inadmissible hearsay and improper character evidence.
They argue his legal strategy is aimed at putting her personality on trial rather than focusing on the central legal issues.
This all comes after Lively filed a lawsuit against her co-star and director Baldoni in December 2024, accusing him of sexual harassment, retaliation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
