Justin Baldoni has addressed the legal battle with his ex-wife Blake Lively for the first time publicly, describing the ordeal as one of ‘injustice and pain.’ In a statement, Baldoni said, ‘We have not spoken publicly for the better part of the last two years, and it’s not because we haven’t had anything to say, because Lord knows we have.’ He added, ‘But … it just didn’t feel like the right time.’

Legal Settlement and Financial Claims

Baldoni and Lively’s legal dispute, which lasted one-and-a-half years, ended on 4 May with a settlement that prevented the case from going to trial. Lively had filed a lawsuit against Baldoni and his studio, alleging breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting in retaliation. As of the settlement, Lively filed for more than $8 million in legal fees from Baldoni and his studio on 25 June. Baldoni has until 13 July to either challenge her claim or pay the amount.

Emotional Toll and Gratitude

Baldoni acknowledged the emotional toll the experience had on their family. ‘We’ve had to wrestle with so many things and try to understand so many things,’ said Emily Baldoni, Justin’s wife. ‘Like, how could something like this even happen? Let alone disguised as a fight for women. The truth is, reality is, is that there’s been a lot of trauma for us to move through as a family.’

You have given your time to fight for us. Baldoni also expressed gratitude to his supporters for standing by his side during the legal battle. ‘There were so many of you who, when we didn’t have a voice, were our voice,’ he said. ‘So many of you had discernment, and you used your intuition, and you trusted that. And thank you does not feel like enough.’

Future Plans and Healing

Emily Baldoni indicated that the couple would continue to share their side of the story in due time. ‘There is so much more to say,’ she said. ‘That time will come, but for now, we are going to focus on continuing the healing and hanging out with our kiddos and enjoying life.’

The Guardian has reached out to Lively’s representative for comment. As of publication, no response had been received.