Blake Lively recently shared a heartfelt message for her longtime personal trainer, Don Saladino, during a difficult time. Saladino was mentioned in her ongoing legal case against actor and director Justin Baldoni, who allegedly asked about Blake’s weight during the filming of It Ends With Us.
Blake, 37, known for her role in Gossip Girl, teamed up with Saladino to promote her beauty brand, Blake Brown Beauty. In her post, she expressed love and gratitude, writing, “I’m so proud to have you and Mel in my life. Everyone needs a friend who knows your husband’s cologne!”
Saladino also posted the video, praising Blake and calling her new product line “incredible.” He shared how much he and his wife care for her and supported her in the ongoing situation.
According to Blake’s legal complaint, Baldoni asked Saladino about her weight while preparing for a scene in which he had to lift her. While Baldoni claimed it was a practical question related to fitness and safety, things quickly escalated. Blake’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, reportedly confronted Baldoni afterward, accusing him of body-shaming Blake and demanding the scene be removed from the movie.
Saladino later clarified on social media that he never officially trained Baldoni, only offering a favor on Blake’s behalf. He added that he has known and worked with Blake for over 15 years and considers her a true friend.
In recent updates, Blake has dropped two emotional distress claims against Baldoni to avoid having to share private medical records, though other serious allegations like sexual harassment remain part of the case. Baldoni’s team argued she is trying to avoid accountability while keeping the option to revive those claims later.
The lawsuit has also drawn attention for involving Blake’s famous friends, including Taylor Swift. Earlier this year, Baldoni tried to subpoena Swift, claiming Blake threatened to “unleash” her and Ryan if he didn’t agree to certain film changes. The court ultimately denied the subpoena after Swift’s team pushed back.
As both sides prepare for trial in March 2026, the legal drama continues with new twists. Baldoni recently brought on high-profile attorney Ellyn S. Garofalo, a former lawyer from Taylor Swift’s legal team, to strengthen his defense. Insiders say she joined because she believes there’s more to the story.
The trial is expected to be one of the most closely watched celebrity court cases in years, as both Blake and Justin deny all claims made against them.
