Alec Baldwin appeared relieved while out to dinner Friday evening after a New Mexico judge dropped the manslaughter charges against him in the 2021 “Lust” shooting that killed cinematographer Halina Hutchins.
Pictures showed the 66-year-old “30 Rock” star smiling with an entourage that included his brother Steven, 58, outside Santa Fe restaurant Casa Chimayo.
The actor had changed from the suit and tie he wore in court that day into a more casual black T-shirt and navy blazer.
Just hours earlier, Baldwin had broken down in tears as a judge abruptly dismissed a manslaughter charge against him in connection with the Oct. 21, 2021, shooting death of cinematographer Halina Hutchins on the set of his western, “Lust.”
The father of eight was seen embracing wife Hilaria Baldwin before the couple got into an SUV.
The couple, who are currently filming their life together with their children for TLC’s reality show, “The Baldwins,” have yet to release a statement about their sudden relationship change.
An attorney for Hutchins’ husband, Matthew Hutchins, said the family respects the court’s decision but still wants Baldwin to be held accountable for the tragedy on set.
“We look forward to presenting all of the evidence to the jury and holding Mr. Baldwin accountable for his actions in the senseless death of Halina Hutchins,” said attorney Brian J. Parrish. He told DeadlineIt refers to civil litigation.
If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison for firing the gun that killed Hutchins and injured manager Joel Souza.
During Friday’s hearing, the judge blasted the prosecution for “deliberately” concealing crucial ammunition evidence from the defense.
Defense attorney Alex Spiro argued during the hearing that a “good Samaritan” brought the bullet that allegedly killed Hutchins to the sheriff’s office after the gunman, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, had already served an 18-month sentence.
Baldwin, who has repeatedly maintained his innocence, settled a wrongful death lawsuit with Matthew Hutchins in 2023.
The judge’s ruling on Friday means the charges against the “Saturday Night Live” regular cannot be filed again.
