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Ryan Reynolds And Blake Lively’s ‘SNL' Date Could Backfire As Justin Baldoni’s Legal Battle Heats Up
By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on February 18, 2025 at 9:15 AM EST
Ryan Reynolds and his wife, Blake Lively, made their first red carpet appearance amid the highly publicized "It Ends With Us" legal battle at the star-studded "SNL 50" event. However, it wasn’t just their presence that caught attention. It was a subtle but pointed joke Reynolds made on air.
During a brief cameo, the "Deadpool" star was asked how he was doing, to which he quipped with a smirk, “Great! Why, what have you heard?”
While the studio audience laughed at the moment, many viewers felt Ryan Reynolds was in the wrong because the serious allegations surrounding the lawsuit, including claims of sexual harassment, defamation, and extortion, weren’t something to joke about.
Justin Baldoni’s Legal Team May Use Ryan Reynolds’ ‘SNL 50’ Joke As Part Of Defense
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An insider close to the case tells Page Six that Reynolds’ decision to joke about the lawsuit on a public stage could become a talking point in Justin Baldoni’s defense.
"It’s very plausible that Justin’s legal team will use this public outing to defend him," the source explained.
They also pointed out the contrast in how both parties are handling the case, adding, "Justin is taking this lawsuit in all seriousness and isn’t making a public mockery out of it."
While it remains unclear how Baldoni’s attorneys plan to incorporate the "SNL" appearance into their case, both legal teams had previously been warned against making public statements or taking actions that could influence a potential jury.
Hollywood Reacts To Reynolds And Lively’s 'SNL' Appearance
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The backlash to Reynolds’ comment isn’t just coming from Baldoni’s camp. According to the insider, even Hollywood insiders found the move questionable.
"People in Hollywood think Blake and Ryan attending the 'SNL 50th Anniversary' show was not a good look," the source shared. "They think they should have sat this one out."
Do Blake And Ryan Regret Attending The 'SNL' Special?
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However, not everyone agrees with that sentiment. A second source told Page Six that despite the mixed reactions, Reynolds and Lively have no regrets about attending the event.
"They have no regrets about making an appearance at the show," the insider said, adding that the couple stayed at Studio 8H long after the cameras stopped rolling.
"Blake was initially hesitant to attend the 'SNL 50th Anniversary' show, but ultimately, she’s glad she attended and had a really nice time," the source continues.
Ultimately, the couple stands by their decision, as the insider emphasized, "They’re glad they showed up because they have nothing to hide and no reason not to."
Justin Baldoni Spends Time In Hawaii With Family As Legal Battle With Blake Lively Escalates
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While Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds were hanging out with Hollywood’s biggest stars at the star-studded "Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary" special, Justin Baldoni was miles away from the media frenzy, spending time with his family in Hawaii.
Over the weekend, the "It Ends With Us" director was spotted grabbing lunch with his children in Paia, a relaxed surf town on the north shore of Maui. Unlike Lively and Reynolds, who were dressed to impress in New York, Baldoni embraced a laid-back island vibe. Photos obtained by TMZ show him strolling through town in flip-flops, shorts, a sleeveless shirt, and a backward cap.
The actor and director appeared completely at ease, seen holding hands with his children and sipping on a smoothie, a stark contrast to the $400 million legal battle he is currently embroiled in with Lively and Reynolds.
A Recurring Hawaiian Escape
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This isn’t the first time Baldoni has sought solace in Hawaii amid his legal dispute with Lively. Just last month, he was seen surfing in Maui, making the most of the ocean and the peaceful island atmosphere.
Now, once again, he is enjoying the tropical retreat, showing off his tan and toned physique, while Lively and Reynolds continue to make headlines back on the mainland.
As the legal drama continues to unfold, Baldoni appears to be focusing on family time and relaxation... at least for now.
With tensions escalating on both sides, the legal battle between Baldoni and Lively is proving to be just as messy in the public eye as it is in court. Whether Reynolds’ joke will play a role in Baldoni’s defense remains to be seen, but it's clear the case is only getting more complicated.