A Sony Pictures executive called Justin Baldoni a “moron” in a 2024 email after the actor-director allegedly made disturbing comments about rape during an interview promoting his film It Ends With Us. The email, sent by senior marketing executive Danni Maggin on August 5, emerged in recently unsealed court documents from Baldoni’s legal dispute with co-star Blake Lively.
Maggin accused Baldoni of implying the “rape” of Lively’s character, Lily, while discussing a violent scene between her and his character, Ryle, with the Dallas Morning News. “Justin is basically alluding to ‘raping’ Atlas out of Lily,” Maggin wrote, referencing Brandon Sklenar’s character. The film explores domestic violence themes. Maggin added that Sony had “cut the tape” of the interview but called Baldoni a “moron,” noting studio president Josh Greenstein suggested limiting his press appearances.
Baldoni allegedly described Ryle’s assault on Lily as stemming from jealousy and insecurity, claiming the character sought to “force any love she had for Atlas out of her” and in Ryle’s “twisted mind, love [Atlas] out of her.” He hinted at using stronger language during filming.
Lively’s lawsuit alleged Sony’s marketing plan instructed the cast to avoid framing the film as “sad or heavy,” instead emphasizing “hope,” resilience, and Lily’s strength. Her legal team accused Baldoni of deviating from this strategy. Baldoni’s countersuit, later dismissed, denied agreeing to the guidelines and asserted he aimed to highlight domestic violence awareness.
During promotions, Lively faced criticism for discussing her fashion line and hairstyle instead of the film’s themes. She defended her approach on Instagram, stating Lily was “not defined” by her trauma and calling the story “deeply empowering.” She shared a domestic violence hotline link.
In December 2024, Lively sued Baldoni for sexual harassment, prompting him to countersue her and Ryan Reynolds for defamation and sue The New York Times for libel over coverage of the case. A judge dismissed Baldoni’s countersuits in June 2025, while Lively’s lawsuit remains ongoing.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). For sexual assault support, contact 1-800-330-0226.