John Kim, known online as The Angry Therapist, found himself and his family displaced after their home was destroyed in the devastating Los Angeles wildfires of early 2025. Initially bouncing between hotels and temporary rentals, Kim received an unexpected offer of refuge from actor Justin Baldoni and his wife, Emily. Despite their limited acquaintance, the Baldonis insisted Kim and his family, along with another displaced family with two children, stay at their home while they were on a family trip to Hawaii. This act of generosity provided much-needed respite and stability for the affected families, allowing them a space to breathe, regroup, and begin planning their next steps amidst the chaos and loss. Kim emphasized the profound impact of the Baldonis’ kindness, describing their home as a place of healing and a haven for the displaced families.
The timing of this generous act is particularly noteworthy given the concurrent legal battles swirling around Justin Baldoni. He was embroiled in a highly publicized legal dispute with his “It Ends With Us” co-star, Blake Lively, involving allegations of sexual harassment and defamation. Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni in December 2024, accusing him of misconduct and attempting to damage her reputation. Baldoni vehemently denied these claims and subsequently countersued Lively for $400 million, alleging defamation. Both parties denied the accusations leveled against them. This legal back-and-forth created a highly charged atmosphere, with public opinion sharply divided.
Amidst this maelstrom of legal wrangling and negative publicity, Baldoni’s offer of shelter to fire-stricken families stands in stark contrast. Kim, a therapist by profession, felt compelled to share his personal experience with the Baldonis, highlighting their character and values. He underscored that his intention was not to take sides in the ongoing legal dispute, but rather to shed light on the complexities of human nature and the dangers of rushing to judgment based on incomplete information. He argued that character is revealed in everyday actions, not just in the context of professional settings or legal battles. Kim expressed his belief that the Baldonis’ compassionate act deserved recognition, especially considering the intense scrutiny they were facing at the time.
Kim’s experience with the Baldonis extended beyond simple shelter. He was also able to continue his men’s therapy group sessions at their home, a practice he previously conducted in his own garage. This continuation of his therapeutic work within the Baldonis’ home further underscores the supportive environment they provided. Kim drew parallels between this act of facilitating his therapy group and Justin Baldoni’s own advocacy for mental health, particularly through his “Man Enough” podcast. He suggested that this shared focus on mental well-being further solidified the bond between them and highlighted the positive impact they were having on others.
Kim’s public acknowledgement of the Baldonis’ kindness sparked a broader conversation about the nature of “cancel culture” and the potential for individuals to be defined solely by accusations, regardless of their actions in other areas of life. He questioned the tendency to quickly condemn individuals based on online narratives and emphasized the importance of considering the full picture before forming judgments. Kim expressed hope that sharing his experience would encourage others to reflect on the human cost of online shaming and the need for more nuanced perspectives. He saw the Baldonis’ actions as a potential catalyst for challenging the prevailing culture of swift judgment and condemnation.
While facing the intense pressure of the legal battle and the accompanying media scrutiny, Justin Baldoni prioritized his family and sought solace in the support of friends and faith. He publicly expressed gratitude for his family, friends, and faith during a trip to Hawaii amidst the unfolding controversy. This statement suggests an attempt to maintain a sense of normalcy and resilience in the face of adversity. The wildfires, while devastating for many, provided an unexpected backdrop against which the Baldonis’ act of kindness resonated deeply, offering a glimmer of hope and compassion amidst the destruction and conflict.
