Justin Baldoni, born on January 24, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, is an American actor, director, and producer renowned for his diverse roles and impactful storytelling. Raised in Medford, Oregon, Baldoni’s multicultural heritage includes Italian and Jewish roots, and he practices the Bahá’í faith.
In December 2024, Baldoni became embroiled in significant controversy following allegations of sexual harassment and retaliatory behavior made by his “It Ends With Us” co-star, Blake Lively. Lively’s complaint, filed with the California Civil Rights Department, accuses Baldoni of unwanted advances during filming and orchestrating a smear campaign to tarnish her reputation.
These allegations have led to substantial professional repercussions for Baldoni. His talent agency, WME, has severed ties with him, and the organization Vital Voices rescinded an award previously granted to him. Additionally, his podcast co-host, Liz Plank, has departed from their joint project.
The situation has garnered widespread attention, with industry peers and the public closely monitoring developments. Lively has received support from fellow actors and organizations, including the actors’ union SAG-AFTRA, which has publicly backed her stance.
Acting Career and Filming Locations
Baldoni’s acting career encompasses various television series and films, each with unique filming locations that contribute to the narratives.
- “Jane the Virgin” (2014-2019): In this acclaimed CW series, Baldoni portrayed Rafael Solano, a hotel owner entangled in complex relationships. The show was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California, utilizing local studios and cityscapes to represent the Miami setting.
- “Spring Break Shark Attack” (2005): Baldoni played a supporting role in this television film, which was shot in South Africa, providing a coastal backdrop that enhanced the thriller’s atmosphere.
- “Everwood” (2005-2006): Appearing as Reid Bardem, Baldoni joined the cast in the show’s later seasons. The series was filmed in Ogden, Utah, with the town’s scenic landscapes standing in for the fictional Everwood, Colorado.
Directorial Ventures and Filming Locations
Transitioning behind the camera, Baldoni has directed films that explore profound human experiences, with filming locations chosen to authentically represent the stories.
- “Five Feet Apart” (2019): This romantic drama about two teenagers with cystic fibrosis was filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana. The city’s hospitals and urban settings provided a realistic backdrop for the narrative.
- “Clouds” (2020): Based on a true story, this film follows a young musician’s battle with cancer. Filming took place in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, with the city’s diverse locales standing in for Minnesota.
- “It Ends With Us” (2024): An adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel, this film was primarily shot in New Jersey, with towns like Hoboken and Jersey City substituting for the story’s Boston setting. Certain scenes were also filmed in Los Angeles, California.
Personal Life and Residences
Baldoni currently resides in Los Angeles, California, with his wife, Emily, and their two children. His upbringing in Medford, Oregon, and his return to Los Angeles have influenced his artistic endeavors, providing him with diverse cultural and environmental experiences that enrich his work in the entertainment industry.
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