Actors Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have confirmed they will not attend the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, which are set to take place on Sunday, January 5, 2025. This news comes amidst a highly publicized legal battle involving Lively and her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni. The couple’s decision not to attend the awards ceremony, however, was reportedly made well in advance of Lively filing her complaint in December 2024.
Blake Lively’s Legal Allegations Against Justin Baldoni
Blake Lively, 37, filed a formal lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, 40, in December 2024, accusing him of sexual harassment and retaliation. Lively claims that during the production of It Ends With Us, Baldoni engaged in repeated instances of inappropriate behavior, including unwelcome advances and derogatory comments.
The lawsuit also alleges that when Lively confronted Baldoni about his behavior, he launched a smear campaign to damage her professional reputation. According to court filings, this campaign included spreading false rumors and attempting to undermine her credibility in the entertainment industry.
Lively’s legal team has presented a detailed account of the alleged incidents, citing witnesses and communications as evidence of her claims.
Baldoni Denies Allegations, Files Defamation Lawsuit
Justin Baldoni has categorically denied the allegations. His attorney, Bryan Freedman, has described the claims as “baseless” and an attempt to malign Baldoni’s reputation. Baldoni, who is also a producer and director of the film, has countersued for defamation.
On December 31, 2024, Baldoni filed a $250 million lawsuit against The New York Times, accusing the publication of defamation over its reporting on Lively’s allegations. Baldoni’s legal team argues that the article published by The Times was biased and contained inaccuracies that further harmed his reputation.
In response, The New York Times issued a statement defending its journalism, stating that the story was “meticulously and responsibly reported” based on verified information and credible sources.
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman Nominated but Will Not Attend
Ryan Reynolds, 48, is nominated for a Golden Globe in the Cinematic and Box Office Achievement category for his role in Deadpool & Wolverine. His co-star, Hugh Jackman, 56, is also nominated in the same category. Despite the nominations, both actors have chosen not to attend the event.
Sources close to the situation have revealed that the decision for Reynolds, Lively, and Jackman to sit out the ceremony was made months before the legal drama between Lively and Baldoni came to light. Insiders suggest that the absence of these high-profile stars could cast a shadow over this year’s awards ceremony, especially given the level of attention surrounding Lively’s case.
Nikki Glaser Addresses the Controversy
Nikki Glaser, the 40-year-old comedian and host of this year’s Golden Globes, has confirmed that she will avoid mentioning the legal dispute during her monologue or throughout the ceremony. In an interview with Yahoo! Entertainment, Glaser explained her decision to steer clear of the topic, describing it as “a hot-button issue.”
“I think the Blake Lively–Justin Baldoni thing is such a sensitive matter right now that even a passing joke could be misconstrued,” Glaser said. “I don’t want to give his name any further platform, and frankly, I don’t want to risk being seen as taking sides when it’s such a nuanced and serious issue.”
Glaser further stated that she was “angry” about the situation and felt conflicted about addressing it even indirectly, as it could overshadow the positive aspects of the ceremony.
Blake Lively Remains Determined
Despite the legal battle and media scrutiny, sources close to Blake Lively describe her as resolute and focused. According to an insider who spoke with PEOPLE, Lively spent the holiday season enjoying time with her family and maintaining a positive outlook.
“She’s doing everything she can to stay in the moment and focus on the things that truly matter to her,” the source said. “Blake believes in the importance of standing up for herself and addressing these issues head-on. She knows it won’t be easy, but she feels it’s the right thing to do.”
Lively’s supporters, including many within Hollywood, have praised her courage in coming forward and taking a stand against what she perceives as misconduct and retaliation in the industry.
A Spotlight on the Golden Globes
The Golden Globe Awards, now in their 82nd year, remain one of Hollywood’s most prestigious events. This year’s ceremony will air live at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+.
While the awards are typically a celebration of talent and achievement in film and television, the absence of prominent figures like Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Blake Lively adds a layer of complexity to the proceedings. Industry insiders suggest that the controversy surrounding Lively’s legal battle could overshadow the event, even if it goes unmentioned during the ceremony.
Broader Implications for Hollywood
Blake Lively’s legal battle with Justin Baldoni highlights broader issues of power dynamics, accountability, and the treatment of women in Hollywood. Her case has sparked discussions within the industry about the need for systemic changes to prevent harassment and create a safer environment for all professionals.
As the legal proceedings unfold, many are watching closely to see how the case will impact not only the individuals involved but also the larger conversation about equity and justice in the entertainment world.
The 2025 Golden Globes, meanwhile, will proceed as planned, but the absence of some of Hollywood’s most prominent stars serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges facing the industry today.
