Ryan Reynolds Seeks Dismissal of Justin Baldoni’s $400M Defamation Lawsuit

Reynolds argues his statements, including calling Baldoni a 'predator,' are protected under the First Amendment and do not meet the legal threshold for defamation.

Ryan Reynolds filed a motion to dismiss Justin Baldoni's defamation lawsuit, asserting that the claims are based on 'hurt feelings' and constitutionally protected opinions.
The lawsuit accuses Reynolds of defaming Baldoni by calling him a 'predator' and mocking him through the 'Nicepool' character in Deadpool & Wolverine.
Reynolds' legal team argues that calling someone a 'predator' is protected free speech if believed to be true, and that the 'Nicepool' character is satirical and unrelated to legal claims.
Baldoni's lawyer alleges Reynolds exploited his Hollywood influence to harm Baldoni's career, including pressuring WME talent agency to drop him as a client.
The legal battle, which also involves Blake Lively's harassment claims against Baldoni, is set to proceed to trial in March 2026.