The Megyn Kelly Show: In-Depth Summary of Episode 1092

Episode Title: Justin Baldoni's Lawyer Says He Won't Settle with Blake Lively, and What Comes Next in the Case, with Bryan Freedman
Host/Author: SiriusXM
Release Date: June 12, 2025

1. Introduction to the Episode

The episode of The Megyn Kelly Show features a pivotal discussion between host Megyn Kelly and Bryan Freedman, Justin Baldoni’s attorney. The conversation delves into the ongoing legal battle between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, exploring recent court decisions, legal strategies, and the broader implications of the case.

2. Overview of the Justin Baldoni vs. Blake Lively Case

Megyn Kelly initiates the episode by addressing the sudden development in the Baldoni vs. Lively case. She introduces Bryan Freedman, highlighting his role in vigorously defending Justin Baldoni against Blake Lively’s claims.

Megyn Kelly:

"No sooner did we wrap our individual take on what happened in Baldoni versus Lively than my friend and lawyer Brian Friedman and I managed to connect..."
[01:14]

3. Court Ruling and Its Implications

A significant portion of the conversation centers around a recent Federal District Court ruling that dismissed large portions of Freedman’s counterclaims against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, The New York Times, and the PR agent involved.

Bryan Freedman:

"The judge simplified things. While we're not pleased that he got rid of the defamation causes of action, the case was never really about defamation..."
[03:35]

Freedman emphasizes that the core issue revolves around wrongful accusations against Justin Baldoni, rather than defamation per se. He suggests that the judge aimed to streamline the case to address fundamental questions about sexual harassment and smear campaigns.

4. Discussion on California Statute 47.1

A critical topic introduced by Freedman is California's new statute, 47.1, which protects individuals accused of sexual harassment or assault from defamation lawsuits unless malice is proven. This statute poses potential financial risks for Baldoni if the defamation claims are dismissed.

Megyn Kelly:

"47.1 seems to say this new California law... could have to pay triple the legal fees and punitive damages..."
[07:05]

Freedman counters by arguing that this statute is untested and may not apply in cases where allegations do not rise to the level of sexual harassment. He contends that the evidence presented so far does not support malice, thereby minimizing the risk of Baldoni facing hefty penalties.

5. PR Strategy and Public Perception

The conversation shifts to Blake Lively’s public relations maneuvers following the court ruling. Lively and her legal team have been publicly celebrating the dismissal of certain claims, which Freedman critiques as premature and based on the judge not having reviewed all relevant briefs.

Bryan Freedman:

"Without getting into detail on that... the judge made clear that he didn’t rule on 47.1, which she’s going around and celebrating a victory."
[05:40]

Freedman attributes Lively's aggressive PR strategy to attempts at controlling the narrative and undermining Baldoni’s position in the court of public opinion.

6. Remaining Legal Claims and Future Steps

Despite the dismissal of specific claims, Freedman outlines the remaining counterclaims, including intentional interference with contract and negligent interference with prospective economic advantage against Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds.

Bryan Freedman:

"There’s an intentional interference with contract... and negligent interference with prospective economic advantage..."
[21:19]

He assures that the legal team is actively working to replead these claims, with plans to proceed to trial if necessary. The deposition of Blake Lively and potentially Ryan Reynolds is anticipated to occur by mid-June, with further evidence and testimonies expected to unravel the truth behind the allegations.

7. Emotional and Career Impact on Justin Baldoni

Freedman discusses the profound impact the lawsuit has had on Justin Baldoni’s career and personal life. He describes Baldoni as resilient, focused on defending his reputation, and determined to restore his professional standing.

Bryan Freedman:

"Justin is emotionally affected and has lost jobs... all he wants is a chance in the courtroom to tell his story."
[25:43]

The attorney emphasizes that the case is fundamentally about proving innocence and rectifying wrongful accusations, rather than seeking financial compensation.

8. Other Cases Discussed by Bryan Freedman

In addition to the Baldoni vs. Lively case, Freedman briefly touches upon other high-profile cases, including the trial involving Sean "Diddy" Combs and the Menendez brothers.

Bryan Freedman:

"The Menendez brothers have been re-sentenced... they're a step closer to potentially getting out."
[40:09]

He expresses optimism regarding the Menendez brothers' chances of early release and reflects on the complexities introduced by modern elements like AI in legal proceedings.

9. Conclusion and Final Remarks

The episode concludes with mutual appreciation between Megyn Kelly and Bryan Freedman. Kelly expresses her admiration for Freedman’s legal prowess and his unwavering support for clients facing public scrutiny and legal challenges.

Megyn Kelly:

"You're an incredible lawyer. Even better man. Just an honor to have you on and to know you."
[42:30]

Freedman reciprocates the sentiments, highlighting the importance of fighting injustice and supporting those wrongfully accused.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Bryan Freedman on Court Ruling Simplification:

  "The judge simplified things... this case was about somebody being wrongfully accused, and that’s Justin."
  [03:35]

• Megyn Kelly on California Statute 47.1:

  "47.1 could have to pay triple the legal fees and costs... potentially... millions and millions of dollars."
  [07:05]

• Bryan Freedman on Malice Requirement:

  "Public figures who sue for defamation have to prove malice... there can be no malice here because the allegations arose from the CRD complaint..."
  [10:07]

• Megyn Kelly on Blake Lively’s PR Moves:

  "She's a bully. She's an obvious bully who can't take any rounds of negative press, which is so absurd."
  [20:10]

• Bryan Freedman on Justin’s Career Impact:

  "Justin is emotionally affected and has lost jobs... all he wants is a chance in the courtroom to tell his story."
  [25:43]

• Megyn Kelly on Freedman’s Success and Integrity:

  "You're an incredible lawyer. Even better man. Just an honor to have you on and to know you."
  [42:30]

Key Takeaways

• Court Ruling: A Federal District Court dismissed significant parts of Freedman’s counterclaims against Blake Lively and associated parties, focusing the case on the core issues of wrongful accusations rather than defamation.

• Statute 47.1 Implications: California's new statute presents potential financial risks for Baldoni but remains largely untested. Freedman argues that the evidence does not support the malice required under this law.

• PR Strategies: Freedman criticizes Lively’s public celebrations as manipulative tactics to sway public opinion prematurely, emphasizing the importance of the legal process in uncovering the truth.

• Legal Strategy Moving Forward: The legal team remains committed to proceeding to trial, focusing on factual evidence and testimonies to exonerate Justin Baldoni from wrongful harassment claims.

• Impact on Justin Baldoni: The lawsuit has adversely affected Baldoni’s career and personal life, but his legal team remains optimistic about restoring his reputation through a courtroom victory.

• Other Legal Cases: Freedman briefly discusses his involvement in other high-profile cases, highlighting his extensive legal expertise and commitment to justice.

Conclusion

Episode 1092 of The Megyn Kelly Show offers a comprehensive analysis of the Justin Baldoni vs. Blake Lively case through the lens of Bryan Freedman, shedding light on legal strategies, court rulings, and the personal ramifications for those involved. The discussion underscores the complexities of defamation law, the impact of public perception, and the relentless pursuit of justice in high-stakes legal battles.