Justin Baldoni has spoken publicly for the first time about his legal battle with Blake Lively, describing the 'injustice and pain' his family endured during the year-long dispute. In a five-minute Instagram video recorded with his wife, Emily, the It Ends With Us director addressed the 'traumatic' experience.
First public statement on the lawsuit
'We have not spoken publicly for the better part of the last two years, and it's not because we haven't had anything to say, because Lord knows we have,' Baldoni said. 'But … it just didn't feel like the right time.' He added that the ordeal taught the couple the importance of friends, family and faith: 'Gratitude has saved us.'
The legal fight between Baldoni and Lively ended on 4 May when both parties agreed to settle Lively's breach of contract, retaliation and aiding and abetting in retaliation lawsuit. The settlement avoided a trial.
Financial and emotional toll
In late June, Lively filed for more than $8m in legal fees from Baldoni and his studio. Baldoni has until 13 July to challenge the claim or pay the amount. Emily Baldoni described the emotional impact: 'We've had to wrestle with so many things and try to understand so many things. Like, how could something like this even happen? Let alone disguised as a fight for women. The truth is, reality is, that there's been a lot of trauma for us to move through as a family.'
Gratitude and next steps
Justin Baldoni thanked supporters who stood by them: 'There were so many of you who, when we didn't have a voice, were our voice. So many of you had discernment, and you used your intuition, and you trusted that. You have given your time to fight for us. And thank you does not feel like enough.' Emily Baldoni indicated the couple would continue sharing their side: 'There is so much more to say. That time will come, but for now, we are going to focus on continuing the healing and hanging out with our kiddos and enjoying life.' The Guardian has reached out to Lively's representative for comment.
