The Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary special was meant to be a night of celebration,

bringing together some of the biggest names in Hollywood to honor five decades of the iconic sketch comedy show.

However, one moment during the event sparked controversy when Ryan Reynolds made an offhand joke referencing his wife, Blake Lively’s, ongoing legal situation with actor and director Justin Baldoni.

Reynolds, who is known for his quick wit and humor, made the remark during a casual exchange with SNL alum Amy Poehler.

The interaction, while met with laughter from the audience, has since drawn sharp criticism—especially from Baldoni’s legal team.

Ryan Reynolds’ Joke That Sparked Controversy

During the SNL 50th Anniversary special, Poehler turned to Reynolds and asked, “How’s it going?” Without missing a beat, the Deadpool star responded, “Why? What have you heard?”

Lively, who was sitting nearby, appeared momentarily surprised by her husband’s remark before laughing along with the crowd. While the joke was well-received in the moment, it quickly gained attention online, where fans and critics debated whether Reynolds had crossed a line by making light of a serious legal situation.

Social media exploded with reactions, with some fans defending Reynolds’ signature brand of humor, while others expressed disappointment over his decision to joke about an ongoing legal matter.

Justin Baldoni’s Lawyer Responds

The backlash reached another level when Baldoni’s legal team addressed the situation. Attorney Bryan Freedman, representing Baldoni, didn’t hold back in his response to Reynolds’ comment.

“I’m unaware of anybody, frankly, whose wife has been sexually harassed and has made jokes about that type of situation,” Freedman stated during an appearance on Hot Mics with Bill Bush. “I can’t think of anyone who’s done anything like that. So it surprised me.”

Freedman’s comments emphasized the serious nature of the legal issues involving Lively and Baldoni, implying that Reynolds’ joke was in poor taste given the circumstances. The lawyer’s statement added to the ongoing debate over whether humor has a place in discussions of sensitive legal matters.

The Public Reaction

Following the exchange, social media users voiced their opinions on both sides of the controversy. Some argued that Reynolds was simply using humor as a coping mechanism, while others criticized him for making light of a situation involving allegations of harassment.

“Ryan is always joking, but maybe this one was a bit too far,” one Twitter user commented.

Another wrote, “I love Blake and Ryan, but joking about a legal case like this just feels… off.”

Others defended Reynolds, suggesting that his remark was a deflection rather than an intentional dig at the situation.

“He’s a comedian at heart, and sometimes jokes don’t land the way they’re intended,” a fan posted.

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds Stay Silent

Despite the growing conversation surrounding the moment, neither Ryan Reynolds nor Blake Lively have officially commented on the controversy. The couple, known for their playful public banter and social media exchanges, have yet to address the backlash or clarify whether the joke was meant to be taken seriously.

For now, it remains unclear whether the incident will have any further legal implications or if Reynolds will choose to issue a statement in response to Baldoni’s legal team.

A Moment Overshadowing SNL’s 50th Anniversary?

While SNL’s 50th-anniversary celebration was filled with nostalgic tributes, legendary cast reunions, and star-studded appearances, this unexpected controversy has become one of the most talked-about moments from the event.

As the conversation continues, it raises larger questions about the boundaries of comedy, particularly when legal matters and personal controversies are involved. For now, fans and critics alike are left wondering whether Reynolds will address the situation—or if this will be yet another Hollywood controversy that fades away with time.