During a revealing conversation at the Freakonomics Radio Live show, hosted by Stephen Dubner at Los Angeles’ Wilshire Ebell Theatre, Emanuel did not mince words about the situation. “It is a messed up, bad situation with what Baldoni is doing,” he expressed, showcasing his frustration with the ongoing legal and reputational skirmish that has ensnared Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds.
Emanuel, a powerhouse in the talent agency realm, has had a long-standing relationship with the couple, representing them through his agency where Baldoni was also a client before being dismissed. “I’ve known Ryan and Blake for over a decade. They’re really incredible people,” Emanuel stated, emphasizing their positive reputation in the industry and charitable endeavors.
The Heart of the Dispute
The core of the conflict appears to center around allegations made by Lively concerning her treatment on the set of “It Ends With Us,” leading to her legal actions against Baldoni. According to Emanuel, if the allegations—that Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath planted negative stories and created a hostile environment—are true, then they represent a grievous breach of professional conduct.
Lively’s stance has been challenged by Baldoni’s camp, which claims that any negative publicity was self-inflicted and denied any involvement in disseminating harmful stories. Furthermore, the issue of intimacy coordinators on set has added another layer of complexity, with Lively alleging a lack of support in this crucial area, a claim Baldoni refutes by stating that an intimacy coordinator was hired.
The Power of Social Media and Public Perception
Emanuel also touched upon the double-edged sword of social media, acknowledging its role in both connecting stars with fans and potentially being used as a tool for manipulation and harm. “Social media is a really good thing at times… but [Baldoni and Heath] used it in an evil way—if that’s true,” he remarked, highlighting the potential for digital platforms to influence public opinion and the course of legal proceedings.
The Future of the Feud
As the legal battle looms with a trial expected next year, the stakes are high for all parties involved. Emanuel’s fierce loyalty to Lively and Reynolds underscores a broader narrative of allegiance and influence in Hollywood’s tightly-knit community.
Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, responded to Emanuel’s comments with a hint of levity, referencing a childhood nickname and questioning Emanuel’s perspective due to their limited personal interactions despite their professional connection.