Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Newly Unsealed 2023 Voice Memo Shows Justin Baldoni Praising Blake Lively Before Filming

The recording becomes part of the expanding public evidence in their federal case ahead of a scheduled May 18 trial.

Overview

  • In the April 3, 2023 message, Baldoni thanks Lively for costume fitting photos and says he "legit got the chills," adding, "You look beautiful."
  • People reports the memo also captures Baldoni seeking Lively’s input on casting the younger Lily Bloom after reviewing roughly 2,600 auditions, weighing a fan favorite against newcomer Isabela Ferrer.
  • The audio predates filming and follows a separate February 2023 note in which Lively referred to Baldoni as a friend while discussing production scheduling after giving birth.
  • Lively’s December 2024 sexual-harassment and retaliation suit remains active, Baldoni denies the claims, and his 2025 countersuit was dismissed; a judge recently heard arguments on a dismissal bid with no ruling yet.
  • The memo surfaces within a trove of newly public exhibits that include texts and emails referencing high-profile figures such as Ryan Reynolds, Taylor Swift, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Jenny Slate and author Colleen Hoover.