Justin Baldoni demands Disney preserve ‘Nicepool’ records amid Blake Lively lawsuit

Justin Baldoni urges Disney and Marvel to preserve "Nicepool" evidence in *Deadpool & Wolverine* amid legal disputes.


Pop Culture & Art January 15, 2025

Justin Baldoni has taken legal action to demand Disney and Marvel preserve all documents related to the creation of the "Nicepool" character featured in Deadpool & Wolverine.

The request comes amid his ongoing legal battle with actress Blake Lively over allegations of sexual harassment and fat-shaming on the set of It Ends With Us.

Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, issued a litigation hold letter to Disney CEO Bob Iger and Marvel President Kevin Feige on January 7, calling for the retention of all records tied to the development of "Nicepool" and any communications about the character. The letter alleges the portrayal of "Nicepool" by Ryan Reynolds was intended to mock Baldoni, citing similarities between the character’s remarks and Lively’s accusations.

The controversy follows Lively’s cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine as "Ladypool," where she faced misogynistic comments from "Nicepool." Lively claims Baldoni fat-shamed her postpartum, an allegation Baldoni denies, stating he addressed her weight only due to health concerns.

The dispute has already spawned multiple lawsuits, including Baldoni suing The New York Times for $250 million over its coverage of the allegations. Additionally, Lively has countersued Baldoni, and related lawsuits involving former publicists have emerged.

Reynolds, who wrote, produced, and starred in Deadpool & Wolverine, has yet to comment on the connection between "Nicepool" and Baldoni. The litigation hold also suggests potential creative disputes between Reynolds and director Tim Miller, fueling speculation about deeper rifts.

As legal battles intensify, the saga underscores the complexities of Hollywood power dynamics and public accountability in the entertainment industry.

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