Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have filed a lawsuit against Bryan Freedman, the attorney representing Justin Baldoni, in an effort to obtain a gag order that will restrict him from using the media to reveal information.
According to USA Today, this request was made in a letter to Judge Lewis J. Liman, in which the couple highlighted their worries related to the possibility that Freedman's statements could "taint the jury pool" in the event that Lively's sexual harassment case is brought before the court. The letter emphasizes the importance of conducting all federal litigation activities in court and adhering to professional conduct standards.
Since Lively filed her complaint against Baldoni on December 20, the legal team representing Lively and Reynolds has accused Freedman of participating in a media campaign as a result of the allegations. They assert that he has conducted interviews, made appearances on podcasts, and disclosed information to the media, so tarnishing the "character, credibility, and reputation" of the key parties concerned.
In addition, per Page Six, the letter asserts that Freedman's activities are part of a "campaign of retaliation" and that they contain a number of false allegations against Lively and other individuals.
The motion highlights several instances of Freedman's alleged misbehavior. These instances include the publication of unedited video from the film "It Ends With Us" and plans to build a website with the intention of refuting Lively's allegations.
Lively's counsel insists that Baldoni and his team have the right to defend themselves, despite the fact that he contends that Freedman's actions violate the Rules of Professional Conduct of New York State with regard to trial publicity.
Following the revelation of behind-the-scenes footage of Lively and Baldoni recording a slow dance scene, which Baldoni's side believes contradicts Lively's characterization of his behavior, this legal maneuvering has been carried out.
The team representing Lively, on the other hand, contends that the video constitutes "damning evidence" that substantiates her claims of sexual harassment allegations.
Baldoni is accused of demonstrating "disturbing" and "unprofessional" behavior on set, as well as directing a retaliatory smear campaign against Lively, according to the lawsuit that she filed against Baldoni.
Baldoni has responded by denying the charges and filing a libel lawsuit against The New York Times for publishing Lively's complaint, which he claims includes "cherry-picked" facts. The case is for $250 million.
Moreover, he has filed a lawsuit against Lively, Reynolds, and their publicist, Leslie Sloan, for a total of $400 million, alleging that they have defamed him and attempted to extort him. This court battle that is still going on brings to light the complexities and tensions that are associated with the case.
Business Times has reached out to Justin Baldoni and Bryan Freedman for comments.
