The legal battle between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively is set to proceed to trial, but the ongoing dispute has already taken a significant toll on both actors. Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, recently shared his perspective on the case during an appearance on the March 12th episode of *The Town* podcast, hosted by former lawyer Matthew Belloni.
During the discussion, Belloni speculated that the case might not go to trial, suggesting that the potential for negative publicity and reputational damage for both parties could lead to a settlement. He asked Freedman, “I do not believe there will be a trial in this case. I just think that the potential for the circus and the damage to both sides here will ultimately win out, and you guys will settle. So, if that’s the case, why not just settle now? What is the number? What would it require for this to go away?”
Freedman, however, pushed back against the idea of the case being a “circus,” emphasizing the personal toll it has taken on Baldoni. He explained, “You keep referring to it as a circus, and I get it. You see a lot of cases. You see a lot of things, but the reality is this is not a circus when you go through an experience like this.” He added, “I’ve represented a lot of people in the worst moments of their career, the worst moments of their life. Justin has been destroyed by this.”
Freedman stressed the importance of uncovering the truth through the trial, stating, “In this day and age, the only way that you can truly get back is to prove your innocence, and that’s what we’re actively working to [do]. That may only be able to be done in a courtroom.”
The legal dispute stems from a complaint filed by Lively in December, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign against her. Since then, Baldoni has faced intense scrutiny over his actions and public image. As the case heads to trial, both parties are bracing for the potential fallout, with Freedman advocating for a resolution that clears Baldoni’s name.
