Blake Lively Hires Ex-CIA Official for Legal Communications in Justin Baldoni Lawsuit

The legal battle between Lively and Baldoni intensifies as both parties face allegations of harassment, defamation, and retaliation, with a trial set for March 2026.

Blake Lively has enlisted Nick Shapiro, a former CIA deputy chief of staff, to advise on legal communication strategy for her ongoing lawsuits against Justin Baldoni.
Lively's amended complaint alleges additional accusations of inappropriate behavior by Baldoni toward other cast members and claims he retaliated against her for reporting workplace concerns.
Baldoni has filed countersuits against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and others, alleging defamation, civil extortion, and a coordinated smear campaign aimed at damaging his career.
The legal conflict has drawn significant public attention, with leaked text messages, social media campaigns, and high-profile celebrity support for both sides fueling the controversy.
A federal trial is scheduled for March 2026, with both parties requesting protective orders to address privacy concerns and alleged threats against witnesses and supporters.