Justin Baldoni has found himself at the center of a legal battle involving It Ends With Us, drawing attention from colleagues in the industry. In a new interview, veteran actor-director James Brolin reflected on their past collaboration and spoke out about the situation. He reflected on Baldoni’s rise as a filmmaker and briefly addressed the ongoing legal dispute.
Here’s what Brolin said about their work together, their friendship, and the controversy with Blake Lively.
James Brolin appreciates Justin Baldoni
James Brolin recently expressed support for actor-director Justin Baldoni during a wide-ranging interview with People.
The two developed a friendship after working together on the 2011 short film Royal Reunion, which Brolin directed and Baldoni starred in. “He asked so many questions, he was so helpful,” Brolin recalled. “But I didn’t realize he was learning, because very soon after that, this guy’s directing his own stuff.”
Brolin, 84, spoke about Baldoni’s career growth and creative work. “I’m so proud of Justin Baldoni because God, he’s written two wonderful books on being a man and being courteous and teaching boys not to fear their fears — and now he’s directed three movies,” Brolin said. He noted that Baldoni began his directing journey with an episode of Jane the Virgin and has since expanded to directing films and giving TED talks.
In response to Baldoni’s ongoing legal dispute with Blake Lively, Brolin commented, “I don’t understand what’s going on right now, but I hope it works out.”
The legal battle stems from accusations Lively made against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation during the production of It Ends With Us. Baldoni has denied the allegations and filed counterclaims against Lively and Ryan Reynolds. The court dismissed Baldoni’s counterclaims, which included allegations of extortion and defamation, and his legal team chose not to amend or refile them.
The court scheduled the trial for March 2026 in New York. Attorneys for both Lively and Baldoni stated that both plan to testify.
Brolin now focuses on directing and is developing multiple projects. He stated, “I don’t have any preferences. They’re varied. It’s hard to say I like a certain kind of thing,” when asked about his creative interests.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on ComingSoon.net.
