Blake Lively's upcoming court date is approaching quickly, but her longtime friend and collaborator Paul Feig says the actress isn't letting the legal drama bring her down. While walking the red carpet at the 2026 Oscars, the director shared that Lively is doing great and is simply soldiering on. He noted that being a mother is the most significant part of her life, and she continues to be a wonderful person. Feig also spoke warmly about her marriage to Ryan Reynolds and their children, emphasising his genuine affection for her.
The filmmaker has been a consistent vocal supporter of Blake Lively since her legal battle with Justin Baldoni began in late 2024. The conflict started when she filed a lawsuit against her 'It Ends With Us' co-star and director, alleging sexual harassment on set and a subsequent smear campaign.
Image Courtesy: Blake Lively/ Instagram
Paul Feig Defends Blake Lively
Feig was one of the first industry figures to publicly defend her character, stating at the time that after making two movies together, he found her to be one of the most professional, talented, and kind people he had ever worked with. He expressed that she didn't deserve the negative press and found it awful that she had been put through such an ordeal.
A year later, as their sequel 'Another Simple Favour' hit streaming platforms, Feig also dismissed rumours of a feud between Blake Lively and her co-star Anna Kendrick. He expressed frustration over public misconceptions about how movies are made, explaining that Lively is an amazing collaborator. He dismissed internet gossip as being uninformed and reiterated that he absolutely loves working with her.
Image Courtesy: Blake Lively/ Instagram
The legal saga has been complex, involving multiple lawsuits and a dismissed $400 million countersuit from Baldoni. Most recently, the two actors attended a mandatory six-hour mediation session in New York, but they were unable to reach a settlement. Unless a deal is struck soon, both Lively and Baldoni are expected to take the stand and testify when the trial officially begins on 18th May.
