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First Photos: Ryan Reynolds Returns to the Spotlight After Blake Lively Drama© Kevin Mazur

First Look: Ryan Reynolds' comeback following Blake Lively drama

The actor appeared with a beaming smile at his first public event after his wife's legal battle against Justin Baldoni began.


JANUARY 8, 2025 3:05 PM EST

As new details unfold regarding the situation between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, one of the most anticipated returns has taken place: that of the actress's husband, Ryan Reynolds. The 48-year-old Canadian actor, screenwriter, and producer has remained out of the public eye recently but made a comeback for a special event.

First Photos: Ryan Reynolds Returns to the Spotlight After Blake Lively Drama© Jamie McCarthy
Michelle Yeoh, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Ethan Slater, Jon M. Chu and David Nicksay winners of the Best Film Award for "Wicked," and Ryan Reynolds pose during The National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 07, 2025 in New York City.
First Photos: Ryan Reynolds Returns to the Spotlight After Blake Lively Drama© Cindy Ord
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds attend the "It Ends With Us" New York Premiere at AMC Lincoln Square Theater on August 06, 2024 in New York City.

Reynold all smiles amid the media turmoil

First Photos: Ryan Reynolds Returns to the Spotlight After Blake Lively Drama© Kevin Mazur

Despite a series of tumultuous weeks, the Deadpool & Wolverine star made a noteworthy appearance at the National Board of Review Awards, where he served as the event's presenter. As expected, his presence at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York created quite a buzz.

Ryan not only delighted attendees with his return to the spotlight but also charmed everyone with his bright smile. Amidst the media frenzy, Reynolds appeared joyful in all the images and interactively engaged with the film's stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.

First Look: Ryan Reynolds' Comeback Following Blake Lively Scandal© Kevin Mazur
Ethan Slater, Ariana Grande, and Cynthia Erivo accept the Best Film Award for "Wicked" from Ryan Reynolds onstage during The National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 07, 2025 in New York City.

Looking sharp as the master of ceremonies at the National Board of Review Awards, he donned a stylish gray suit with satin lapels, complemented by a white shirt and glasses.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 07: Ryan Reynolds speaks onstage during The National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 07, 2025 in New York City.  (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for National Board of Review)© Jamie McCarthy
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 07: Ryan Reynolds speaks onstage during The National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 07, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for National Board of Review)

The Main Attraction 

Ryan was also thrilled to witness the tribute to Wicked, which was recognized as the best film of 2024. In his speech, the Free Guy star noted how this tale of "two powerful women" has resonated with audiences for over two decades.

Revisa tu año de nacimiento para conocer tu signo zodiacal chino© Kevin Mazur

“Stories about women seem to be held to a different set of standards, and that is to say that they’re often held to the standard women are held to in life,” the actor said from the stage.

His remarks sparked considerable conversation, as they are believed to carry an unspoken message relating to the situation his wife, Blake Lively, faced during the filming of Breaking the Circle.

His Strong Support

Since the Gossip Girl star initiated legal action against Justin Baldoni, she has stepped entirely away from the media spotlight. Both she and her husband have taken solace in their family, especially during this significant time of year. "They are concentrating on making Christmas memorable for their children," a close source shared with People regarding James, 10, Inez, 8, Betty, 5, and Olin, 1. In fact, neither Blake nor Ryan attended the Golden Globes held last Sunday.

The actor has consistently been Blake's strongest supporter, especially now, as he has been by her side without fail. "He is very proud of her in many ways," the source stated shortly after it was announced that the actress had filed a lawsuit against her director and co-star in Breaking the Circle.

Blake Lively's last appearance before legal battle against Justin Baldoni

All attention is now focused on Blake's eventual return, the timing and manner of which remain uncertain. The last time she was in the public eye was on December 11, when she attended the

Blake Lively at the 2024 Beauty Inc Awards held at the Rainbow Room on December 11, 2024 in New York, New York. © Katie Jones/WWD
Blake Lively at the 2024 Beauty Inc Awards held at the Rainbow Room on December 11, 2024 in New York, New York.

"We had to create an excellent product from the start because you only have one chance to earn people's trust," the Hollywood superstar acknowledged during her speech. The actress, visibly proud of receiving this international recognition, looked stunning with her iconic long wavy hair and a pastel yellow ensemble that complemented her beautifully.

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