Blake Lively's brother-in-law Bart Johnson has publicly apologized for his earlier remarks related to her legal conflict with her co-star Justin Baldoni. The High School Musical actor took to social media on January 28, 2025, to express his regret for any "unkind" comments he made during Lively's highly publicized dispute with Baldoni.
Johnson, who is married to Lively’s older half-sister Robyn, acknowledged the repercussions of his previous statements, particularly after supporting Lively throughout her allegations. "Anytime I’ve said anything unkind about someone I’ve regretted it," he wrote, emphasizing, "Regardless if it’s true or not, if it’s my opinion, even if I’m trying to speak truth or stand up for someone, it’s never good."
His apology surfaces at the forefront of the tumultuous legal battles between Lively and Baldoni, which began with claims of sexual harassment and defamation. Lively initiated legal action against Baldoni and associates, asserting she was subjected to both harassment during the production of the film It Ends With Us and damage to her reputation thereafter. Meanwhile, Baldoni has countered with his own $400 million lawsuit, accusing Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, of defamation.
The actor's social media remarks have resulted for him considerable backlash, particularly his previous labeling of Baldoni as a "fraud." Johnson stated on X (formerly Twitter) prior to his apology, "He’s a fraud. He puts on the ‘costume’ of a hero... It’s all theater. And everyone fell for it." The inflammatory comments drew attention, especially against the backdrop of media scrutiny surrounding the feuding parties.
After weeks of defending Lively, Johnson's change of tone appeared to signal an effort to distance himself from any contentious rhetoric. During his recent notes on social media, Johnson said, "Even in times where it might 'feel' justified... there's a path to speak with greater integrity." His admission of regret marks a significant shift from his earlier stance of staunch support for Lively.
Much of the tension stems from the allegations made by Lively against Baldoni, alleging he orchestrated a smear campaign against her, employing tactics characteristic of psychological manipulation—consolidated under the terms of DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender)—to shift the narrative away from her claims. Johnson's social media activity has been observed as part of the broader support network for Lively, but his recent comments illuminate his desire to align more closely with his personal values.
Upon sharing his renewed commitment to positivity, Johnson noted, "You can easily find a million times I’ve uplifted, supported, encouraged, and uplifted my family, friends, followers & strangers. That’s what I’m committed to and where I find my happiness." His corrective stance reflects not only on himself but highlights the convoluted atmosphere surrounding this high-profile conflict.
With the trial dates for both lawsuits set for March 9, 2026, the involved parties are preparing for one of Hollywood’s most intense courtroom showdowns. Lively remains unwavering, asserting her allegations against Baldoni, as her team prepares to confront his legal challenges head-on.
The complexity of this case exposes the multifaceted nature of celebrity conflicts, drawing public eyes to the entwined legal battles and the impacts of social media discourse. Johnson’s apology signifies the need for personal accountability even amid fierce loyalty, as the narratives evolve and public perceptions continue to shift.
Reflecting on his past remarks, Johnson concluded his apology with self-awareness, stating, "We all have flaws, and I’m definitely a work in progress and doing my best to grow and bebetter." It remains to be seen how these developments will influence the legal proceedings and the perception of those involved as tensions mount.