Ryan Reynolds has filed a motion to dismiss himself from Justin Baldoni’s $400 million defamation lawsuit. The lawsuit, which also targets Reynolds’ wife Blake Lively, was initiated by Baldoni following Lively’s own lawsuit against him for sexual harassment and retaliation. Reynolds’ legal team argues that his inclusion as a defendant lacks legal merit and is based on two instances where he allegedly referred to Baldoni as a “predator.” However, they contend that labeling someone as a “predator” is a constitutionally protected viewpoint, especially since Reynolds genuinely believes Baldoni’s actions reflect predatory behavior.
Reynolds’ attorneys, Mike Gottlieb and Esra Hudson, emphasize that defamation requires proof that the allegedly defamatory statements were made with knowledge of their falsity or with reckless disregard for the truth. Since Reynolds sincerely holds the belief that Baldoni is a predator, his statements do not constitute defamation. Additionally, the motion suggests that Reynolds’ involvement in the lawsuit is a result of a vow by Steve Sarowitz, a business associate of Baldoni, to spend up to $100 million to “ruin” Lively and Reynolds.
The legal team also criticizes the lawsuit for lacking specific details about the alleged defamatory statements and for including claims that are more akin to “clickbait” than legitimate legal grievances. The case is part of a broader legal conflict involving accusations of a smear campaign and breach of contract, with both sides exchanging allegations.