WASHINGTON — In a recent development surrounding the legal controversy between actors Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, Johnny Depp’s attorney, Benjamin Chew, has commented on Baldoni’s unorthodox tactics. Chew, who is renowned for his representation of Depp in a high-profile defamation case against Amber Heard, shared his perspective on a new legal website launched by Baldoni. This site includes his amended complaint and a timeline of events intended to counteract Lively’s sexual harassment allegations.
Recognizing Baldoni’s methods as particularly assertive, Chew explained during an appearance on the “Law & Crime Sidebar with Jesse Weber” podcast that launching such a website prior to a hearing is not typically advised. Although the posting of pleadings is within legal bounds as they are public records, Chew described Baldoni’s approach as both novel and bold. Chew refrained from predicting outcomes of the ongoing multimillion-dollar lawsuit or favoring either party.
Tensions escalated last week when Baldoni, who not only starred in but also directed “It Ends With Us,” took to this platform during a fiery legal battle with his co-star. He aimed to refute Lively’s claims by providing extensive documentation and evidence that purport to frame the narrative from his perspective.
Lively’s legal team responded by labeling a released behind-the-scenes video as adverse for Baldoni’s defense. The video purportedly depicted interactions between Lively and Baldoni that were key to her harassment claims. Despite this, Baldoni’s selection of evidence to publicly share was strategically intended to sway public opinion ahead of their trial, set for March 2026.
Depp’s connection to the Baldoni and Lively saga emerged when Baldoni enlisted the services of The Agency Group, a crisis PR firm known for its work with Depp during his legal proceedings. Lively, in a complaint filed in December 2024 with the California Civil Rights Department, accused Baldoni alongside publicist Jennifer Abel and others of launching a smear campaign against her.
Chew highlighted the impact of tangible evidence such as video and text messages in such high-stakes litigation. According to him, these types of evidence can be particularly compelling to courts and public opinion because they provide direct insights into the interactions in question.
While the attorney maintained a neutral stance on who might have the upper hand, he acknowledged the complexities involved in such celebrity legal battles where both public relations and legal strategies intertwine.
This unfolding legal drama encapsulates not only the personal and professional ramifications for those directly involved but also reflects broader issues of celebrity, privacy, and the legal handling of harassment allegations in Hollywood.
As the legal battle between Baldoni and Lively advances towards the 2026 trial date, public and media scrutiny is likely to intensify, further blurring the lines between private disputes and public spectacle.
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