Ryan Reynolds steps out for first time since Lively-Baldoni drama

Ryan Reynolds stepped out with a smile at the National Board of Review Awards on Tuesday, January 7, in New York City. The actor, known for his roles in Deadpool and Wolverine, looked sharp in a grey jacket and white shirt. Reynolds was on stage to introduce Wicked, which was named the best movie of 2024 at the gala.

Reynolds praises Wicked at the event

During his speech, Reynolds highlighted the film’s powerful portrayal of women. “Wicked is indeed wicked,” he said, celebrating the story’s complex and nuanced relationship between its two female leads. The actor praised Universal and Donna Langley for trusting in the film’s creative direction. “Stories about women are often held to impossible standards,” he noted, acknowledging the challenges women face in Hollywood.

Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni

While Reynolds shone on stage, the couple has been dealing with serious legal issues behind the scenes. Blake Lively filed a lawsuit in December 2024 against Justin Baldoni, her co-star and director of It Ends with Us. Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment on set. In her December 20 filing, she claimed Baldoni and others involved in the production entered her trailer uninvited while she was undressed and pressured her into an unscripted nude scene.

Emotional and professional impact on Lively and Reynolds

Lively’s legal complaint outlined the emotional toll the experience had on her, describing suffering from extreme anxiety, grief, and trauma. She also expressed concern for the impact on her young children, who have reportedly been deeply affected by the situation. Lively claimed that Reynolds, too, has been impacted both mentally and professionally due to the events surrounding his wife’s legal battle.

A tense confrontation and legal drama

The legal drama deepened with allegations of a tense meeting in January 2024 between Baldoni, Lively, Reynolds, and producers. Baldoni’s legal team claims that Reynolds “launched into a tirade” during the meeting, which Baldoni later described as “traumatic.” The alleged confrontation is said to have involved Reynolds angrily berating Baldoni.

Support for Wicked and career resilience

Despite the ongoing legal drama, Reynolds and Lively made a public appearance together in early December 2024. They attended a screening of the Wicked movie musical to support Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. In 2024, Lively shared how Reynolds helps her with her work and vice versa. “We help each other. His wins are mine and mine are his,” she said, reflecting their strong partnership both personally and professionally.

Reynolds maintains composure despite turmoil

Even with the legal storm brewing around him, Reynolds managed to remain composed and professional at the National Board of Review event. His strong presence and commitment to his career were evident as he introduced Wicked to the audience. While the impact of Lively’s lawsuit on their careers remains uncertain, Reynolds’ ability to handle such challenges with poise is making headlines.

Hollywood’s ongoing drama: a case to watch

The legal battle between Lively and Baldoni has captured the attention of Hollywood and the public. As more details continue to emerge, it’s clear that this case will have far-reaching implications. With Reynolds in the spotlight and Lively in the midst of her legal fight, all eyes are on the couple as they navigate through this public ordeal.