Will Alec Baldwin’s Trial Be Televised? Yes, and Here’s What to Expect

Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter trial, stemming from the fatal 2021 shooting on the “Rust” movie set, is scheduled to begin July 10, 2024, following jury selection starting July 9. Crucially for those following the case, the trial will be televised, with Court TV broadcasting and distributing the feed to other media outlets. This high-profile case will allow the public to witness the legal proceedings firsthand.

Alec Baldwin Trial: Televised Proceedings Offer Public Access

The decision to televise Alec Baldwin’s trial offers unprecedented public access to a complex legal case involving a well-known Hollywood figure. The trial is expected to last eight days, covering key aspects of the incident, including Baldwin’s actions, the role of the film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, and the technical analysis of the firearm involved.

Hannah Gutierrez in court ahead of defense opening statements

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed stands in court during her trial in Santa Fe, New Mexico. (Court TV)

The trial follows Baldwin’s not guilty plea in January 2024 to involuntary manslaughter charges. A grand jury indicted him after a new analysis of the revolver used in the shooting. Baldwin has maintained his innocence, stating he cocked the gun but didn’t pull the trigger.

Key Witnesses and Evidence in the Televised Trial

The trial will likely feature testimony from key witnesses, including “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, whose own trial recently concluded. An FBI firearms expert’s testimony, central to Gutierrez-Reed’s case, could also hold implications for Baldwin’s trial. The prosecution’s initial witness list includes 32 names, offering a comprehensive overview of the events leading up to and following the tragic shooting.

All motions and final witness lists are due by May 6, 2024. This deadline allows both the prosecution and defense to finalize their strategies before the televised trial commences. The outcome of Gutierrez-Reed’s trial could significantly impact the proceedings against Baldwin.

What’s at Stake for Alec Baldwin?

Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted. He currently remains free on bail, adhering to conditions such as abstaining from alcohol, not possessing firearms, and remaining within the United States. While allowed limited contact with witnesses for promotional purposes related to the unreleased film “Rust,” he is prohibited from involving them in a documentary about the incident.

The televised trial will undoubtedly attract significant public attention, offering insights into the legal process and the complexities of the case against Alec Baldwin. The broadcast will provide a real-time view of the evidence presented, witness testimonies, and legal arguments that will ultimately determine Baldwin’s fate.

Alec Baldwin on the “Rust” film set in Santa Fe, N.M., on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021, where cinematographer Halyna Hutchins died from a gun fired by the actor.