Justin Louis Baldoni, born on January 24, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, is an American actor, director, and filmmaker. He is best known for his portrayal of Rafael Solano on the CW’s telenovela “Jane the Virgin” (2014–2019) and for directing films such as “Five Feet Apart” (2019) and “Clouds” (2020). In 2024, Baldoni directed and starred opposite Blake Lively in the romantic drama “It Ends with Us,” which achieved box-office success. Beyond his acting and directing career, he co-founded Wayfarer Studios in 2019 and has been an advocate for redefining masculinity through his “Man Enough” projects.
Who is Justin Baldoni?
Justin Louis Baldoni, born on January 24, 1984, is an American actor, director, and filmmaker. He is widely recognized for his role as Rafael Solano in the popular television series Jane the Virgin (2014–2019) and as the director of movies like Five Feet Apart (2019) and Clouds (2020). In addition to his contributions to the entertainment industry, Baldoni is a social entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and advocate for redefined masculinity through his Man Enough platform.
Early Life and Education
Justin Baldoni was born in Los Angeles, California, to Sharon (née Solomon) and Sam Baldoni. His mother is of Jewish descent, and his father has Italian roots, giving him a culturally diverse background. Both of his parents converted to the Baháʼí Faith, which played a significant role in shaping Justin’s worldview and values.
Raised in Medford, Oregon, Justin displayed a natural talent for sports and creativity. During his teenage years, he was a dedicated soccer player and runner, which earned him a partial athletic scholarship to California State University, Long Beach. However, his true passion lay elsewhere, and he soon realized his calling was in storytelling and performance.
Apart from academics, Justin worked as a radio DJ in high school, showcasing his charismatic personality. Despite initially pursuing athletics, his interests transitioned toward acting and filmmaking, setting the stage for a successful career in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
Justin Baldoni is married to Swedish actress Emily Foxler. The couple tied the knot in July 2013 and has since built a loving family. Justin and Emily are proud parents to two children: a daughter, Maiya Grace, and a son, Maxwell Roland-Samuel.
Baldoni is a family-oriented individual who frequently shares glimpses of his personal life on social media. His relationship with his wife is often described as supportive and nurturing, with the couple collaborating on projects and philanthropic endeavors.
In addition to his family, Baldoni’s faith has remained a cornerstone of his personal life. His commitment to the Baháʼí Faith is reflected in his efforts to promote unity, service, and equality through his work and public engagements.
Family Background
Justin’s parents, Sharon and Sam Baldoni, had a profound influence on his upbringing. His mother’s Ashkenazi Jewish heritage and his father’s Italian Catholic background exposed him to diverse cultural traditions. However, both parents converted to the Baháʼí Faith before Justin’s birth, instilling in him principles such as the importance of unity, service, and compassion.
Baldoni often credits his parents for encouraging him to embrace his individuality and pursue his passions. His close-knit family played a pivotal role in his journey, providing a solid foundation of support and encouragement.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Justin Louis Baldoni |
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Parents | Sharon (née Solomon) and Sam Baldoni |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) |
| Occupation | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Years Active | 2004–present |
| Spouse | Emily Foxler (married in 2013) |
| Children | 2 |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $10 million |
Career
Acting Career
Justin Baldoni began his acting career with guest roles in television series such as Everwood, JAG, and The Suite Life of Zack & Cody. These roles helped him gain experience and recognition in the industry.
However, it was his portrayal of Rafael Solano in the hit CW show Jane the Virgin that catapulted him to fame. The series, which ran from 2014 to 2019, showcased Justin’s talent and charisma, earning him a dedicated fan base. His character’s charm and complexity resonated with viewers, making him one of the show’s standout performers.
Directorial Ventures
In addition to acting, Justin Baldoni made a successful transition into directing. His directorial debut came with the 2019 film Five Feet Apart, a romantic drama centered on two young patients with cystic fibrosis. The movie received critical acclaim and performed well at the box office, solidifying Justin’s reputation as a skilled director.
He followed this success with Clouds (2020), a biographical drama based on the true story of Zach Sobiech, a teenager battling cancer. The film was praised for its emotional depth and inspiring message.
In 2024, Baldoni took on dual roles as both director and actor in It Ends with Us, an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. Starring alongside Blake Lively, the movie was a commercial success, further showcasing Justin’s versatility as a filmmaker.
Wayfarer Studios and Social Advocacy
Justin co-founded Wayfarer Studios in 2019, aiming to create impactful and socially conscious content. The studio focuses on projects that inspire audiences and promote positive change.
Baldoni is also the creator of the Man Enough podcast and book series, which explore topics of masculinity, vulnerability, and societal expectations. His efforts to redefine traditional gender roles have earned him widespread recognition as an advocate for emotional health and gender equality.
Philanthropy and Public Speaking
Baldoni is deeply committed to philanthropy and uses his platform to address social issues. He frequently speaks at events and conferences, sharing his insights on topics like gender equality, self-worth, and the importance of empathy.
Through Wayfarer Studios and his Man Enough initiatives, Justin continues to inspire audiences to embrace authenticity and challenge societal norms.
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm), Justin Baldoni possesses a commanding presence. He has a fit and athletic build, a testament to his active lifestyle and commitment to health. His dark brown hair and expressive eyes complement his charismatic on-screen persona, contributing to his appeal as both an actor and director.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Justin Baldoni’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful acting roles, directorial projects, and entrepreneurial ventures, including his work with Wayfarer Studios and the “Man Enough” podcast.
Latest News
Justin Baldoni is currently making headlines due to the ongoing legal battle with actress Blake Lively over their collaboration on the 2024 film It Ends with Us. Lively recently filed a $250 million lawsuit against Baldoni, alleging misconduct and a smear campaign during the film’s production. In response, Baldoni has countersued for $400 million, accusing Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and extortion. The legal dispute has gained significant media attention, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for February 3, 2025, and a trial date set for March 9, 2026. Both parties have released public statements, and fans are closely following this high-profile case.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @justinbaldoni | ||
| @justinbaldoni | ||
| Justin Baldoni | ||
| YouTube | Justin Baldoni | YouTube |
| Justin Baldoni |
FAQS
- What did Justin Baldoni do to Blake Lively?
Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are involved in a legal dispute over their film It Ends with Us, with allegations of misconduct and defamation. - What is Justin Baldoni’s religion?
Justin Baldoni practices the Baháʼí Faith, emphasizing unity, equality, and service. - How much did Justin Baldoni get paid for It Ends with Us?
While exact figures are undisclosed, Justin Baldoni likely earned a significant amount as both director and actor, with estimates in the millions. - Who unfollowed Justin Baldoni?
Specific details about who unfollowed him on social media are unclear, though controversies might have impacted his relationships.
