Justin Baldoni’s decision to publicly release legal documents and footage as part of his defense against Blake Lively’s sexual harassment allegations is making waves, and Johnny Depp’s attorney, Benjamin Chew, has weighed in on the strategy.
Chew, known for representing Depp in his high-profile defamation case against Amber Heard, called Baldoni’s approach “very aggressive” but acknowledged that it was likely well thought out. Speaking on Law&Crime Sidebar, Chew noted that while it’s unusual to launch a website before a court hearing, it isn’t necessarily inappropriate since the documents are already part of the public record.
Baldoni’s lawsuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, alleges extortion and defamation in response to her claims. His legal team has also released behind-the-scenes footage from It Ends With Us, arguing it disproves her allegations. However, Lively’s attorneys claim the footage is actually “damning” rather than exonerating.
When asked which side currently has the advantage, Chew declined to take a stance but emphasized that video and text message evidence could be crucial in court. “Having receipts will be particularly persuasive… because everybody can see it,” he said.
Baldoni’s PR strategy has drawn comparisons to Depp’s legal approach, as he has enlisted The Agency Group, the same firm that managed Depp’s public relations during his case against Heard. With the trial set for March 2026, Baldoni’s aggressive legal strategy continues to generate debate.
