**Justin Baldoni Slams Ryan Reynolds’ Lawsuit Dismissal Bid, Brands Him Blake Lively’s ‘Co-Conspirator’**

• Justin Baldoni’s attorneys submitted a rebuttal opposing Ryan Reynolds’ dismissal motion, urging the court to reject it
• Reynolds and his legal representatives contended in March that his inclusion in the case lacked justification
• The superhero franchise star’s spokesperson called the lawsuit “baseless” and reaffirmed support for Blake Lively

Legal representatives for Justin Baldoni have petitioned the court to reject Ryan Reynolds’ attempt to exit a $400 million libel lawsuit targeting the Marvel actor.

Submitted to the court on April 1, Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios’ legal team detailed arguments against allowing Reynolds’ removal from the legal proceedings.

Court documents state: “Mr. Reynolds erroneously claims the amended complaint offers no grounds for his involvement, portraying himself as merely a supportive partner. Contrary to this portrayal, substantial evidence outlines his direct involvement and collaborative role in alleged conspiratorial actions.”

The filing additionally argues that even if dismissal occurs, Reynolds should bear his own legal expenses rather than recover costs.

A representative for Reynolds countered on April 3: “The claimants now recognize fundamental flaws in their allegations. Their defamation claims still lack specifics regarding victims, statements, or demonstrable damages.”

The statement continued: “Unlike Mr. Baldoni’s performative advocacy for women, Mr. Reynolds authentically embodies these principles. He remains steadfast in defending his wife against harassment and retaliatory attacks.”

Reynolds’ attorneys previously argued in March: “Allegations hinge on private remarks about Mr. Baldoni’s predatory behavior. For defamation to hold, plaintiffs must prove disbelief in these statements – a criterion their complaint fails to address.”

The litigation stems from allegations by Blake Lively (37) against her It Ends With Us colleague Baldoni (41), accusing him of harassment and orchestrating a retaliatory smear campaign. Baldoni has denied these claims and filed counter-allegations of character defamation.

Baldoni’s counsel Bryan Freedman previously asserted: “Mr. Reynolds has been instrumental since the outset in coordinating attacks against our client and Wayfarer Studios.”

Legal filings reference Reynolds’ past comments: “I’ve grown too influential to fail – now I vanquish rivals and savor their defeat,” the actor joked during a 2024 press event about lessons from Hugh Jackman.

With Lively’s parallel dismissal motion pending, Baldoni’s team denounced the action as “morally reprehensible.” Proceedings are slated for March 2026.