Robert Downey Jr. Reveals Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Tried to Set Him Up Like Justin Baldoni

After a five-year hiatus, Robert Downey Jr. is making his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, before stepping back into his iconic role, he reportedly turned down an opportunity to work with Ryan Reynolds, citing concerns that Reynolds and his wife, Blake Lively, attempted to manipulate him in a similar fashion to what allegedly happened with Justin Baldoni.

Ryan Reynolds’ Controversial Attempts to Secure RDJ

According to insiders, Ryan Reynolds had drawn up a list of actors to make cameo appearances in Deadpool 3, with Downey Jr. being a key target. Screenwriters Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick revealed that a scene had been written specifically to feature Downey Jr. alongside Jon Favreau. However, despite Reynolds’ persistence and even reading the script out loud to him, RDJ declined the offer outright.

Reports suggest that Downey Jr.’s decision may have been influenced by the recent controversies surrounding Reynolds and Lively, particularly the accusations leveled against them by Baldoni. With Baldoni shedding light on alleged behind-the-scenes tensions and control tactics, it seems other celebrities, including Downey Jr., are stepping forward to distance themselves from the couple.

The Fallout of the Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni Drama

The entertainment industry has been abuzz with allegations that Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively attempted to undermine Baldoni’s career. According to conservative commentator Candace Owens, sources close to the situation claim that Reynolds was the instigator, allegedly interfering with Baldoni’s project, It Ends With Us, and even influencing casting decisions. Furthermore, Owens reported that Reynolds allegedly pressured WME, one of Hollywood’s most powerful talent agencies, to drop Baldoni, effectively blacklisting him.

Baldoni himself has reportedly taken legal action, alleging that Reynolds used his influence to sabotage his career. The lawsuit claims that during the Deadpool & Wolverine premiere in 2024, Reynolds openly expressed disdain for Baldoni to top WME executives, leading to his immediate fallout with the agency.

Hollywood Insiders Weigh In

As more details emerge, industry insiders are beginning to speak out against Reynolds. Even lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart recently hinted at Reynolds’ real persona, stating that he is not as charming or humorous in real life as he portrays himself on screen.

In addition, Morena Baccarin, who played Vanessa in Deadpool, reportedly faced similar treatment as Baldoni. Initially set to have a larger role in the sequel, Baccarin was sidelined, allegedly due to Reynolds’ influence. Director Tim Miller, who helmed the first Deadpool, also left the franchise, citing creative differences with Reynolds and hinting at the actor’s desire for complete control over the project.

The Industry’s Changing Perception of Ryan Reynolds

The negative reports continue to pile up. Former Deadpool co-star T.J. Miller also accused Reynolds of being hostile and dismissive on set. Miller recalled an incident where Reynolds, in character as Deadpool, belittled him, making it clear that he saw Miller’s character as insignificant to the film’s success.

With mounting accusations and Hollywood figures coming forward with their own experiences, the once-beloved image of Ryan Reynolds is beginning to crack. The industry and fans alike are now questioning whether Reynolds’ public persona aligns with his private behavior.

As for Robert Downey Jr., his refusal to engage with Reynolds may indicate that he is not willing to risk entangling himself in the ongoing controversies. With his return to Marvel already confirmed, RDJ seems to be focused on reclaiming his legacy without the drama surrounding Hollywood’s golden couple.

Whether or not Reynolds and Lively can recover from these revelations remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the industry is watching, and the truth is beginning to surface.