Los Angeles, CA – March 23, 2025 – A heated legal feud between actor-director Justin Baldoni and Hollywood power couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds has ignited a firestorm of public reaction, with a viral X post by user Melanie King (@realmelanieking) amplifying the controversy. Posted at 17:07 UTC on March 23, the message has garnered significant attention, shedding light on the emotional toll of the dispute on Baldoni.
Imagine the threat of false sexual harassment allegations looming over you, your movie taken from you, your career and company ruined & you’re mocked being killed in a Disney movie. The stress is so bad you have to be hospitalized.
When I tell you Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds… pic.twitter.com/7yIEWoNT5Y
— Melanie King (@realmelanieking) March 23, 2025
Baldoni, known for his role in Jane the Virgin and as the director of It Ends with Us, has been embroiled in a legal battle with Lively, his co-star in the film, since she filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department in early 2025. Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment on set and orchestrating a smear campaign against her, claims he has denied. In response, Baldoni countersued Lively and Reynolds for $400 million, alleging they attempted to ruin his career and reputation. He also filed a $250 million lawsuit against The New York Times for its reporting on the allegations, accusing the outlet of libel.
King’s post highlights the severe stress Baldoni endured, noting his hospitalization in June 2024 due to the ordeal. “The stress is so bad you have to be hospitalized,” she wrote, condemning Lively and Reynolds for allegedly using their children to gain public sympathy while ignoring the impact on Baldoni’s family. The post, which has received 13 likes and several replies, reflects a growing sentiment among some fans who believe Baldoni has been unfairly targeted.
