Alec Baldwin Thanks Supporters After Case Dismissal: “I Appreciate You”

Alec Baldwin has expressed his gratitude to those who supported him after a New Mexico judge dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against him. Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ruled on Friday that the charges related to the tragic shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film “Rust” should be dropped.

Sommer dismissed the case with prejudice, citing misconduct by police and prosecutors who withheld ammunition evidence from Baldwin’s defense team.

After the ruling, Baldwin, visibly emotional, broke down in tears and embraced his wife, Hilaria, who was also tearful. The 66-year-old actor, best known for his roles in the sitcom “30 Rock” and on the US sketch show “Saturday Night Live,” faced the possibility of 18 months in prison if convicted.

In a statement posted to Instagram on Saturday, Baldwin said, “There are too many people who have supported me to thank just now. To all of you, you will never know how much I appreciate your kindness toward my family.”

The actor accompanied the statement with a photo of himself watching the court proceedings. Among those offering messages of support was Marvel actor Jeremy Renner, who wrote, “Bless you sir.” Stage and screen legend Sir Anthony Hopkins commented with a heart emoji, while “Titanic” actress Frances Fisher said, “Whatever comes next, we are by your side, Alec.”

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film’s armourer, was earlier sentenced to 18 months in prison on an involuntary manslaughter conviction for Hutchins’ death, a verdict she is currently appealing against.