Blake Lively's Harassment Lawsuit Survives Key Hurdle

Federal Judge Keeps Key Claims in Blake Livelys It Ends With Us Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni

In a recent development, a federal judge in New York has allowed three significant claims in Blake Livelys sexual harassment lawsuit against Justin Baldoni to proceed to trial. Lively, who starred in and produced the film It Ends With Us, filed the lawsuit in December 2024, alleging retaliation and other forms of harassment. The trial is scheduled for May 18th.

Baldoni, the director and co-star, had previously filed a countersuit against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds for defamation and extortion, but the judge dismissed these claims last June. The judges decision hinges on Lively being an independent contractor, not an employee, which means certain harassment protections under federal law do not apply.

The lawsuit has sparked interest in Hollywood and among fans, especially since the movie grossed over $50 million on its opening weekend last August, despite the behind-the-scenes tension that turned it into tabloid fodder. Livelys team has described the situation as a vicious smear campaign that damaged her reputation after she advocated for set safety.

The judge ruled that some alleged incidents, such as those during dance scenes, were within the bounds of the scripts creative direction. However, other moments, including comments on Livelys outfit and pushing a nude birth scene without closing the set, could support the retaliation angle against Baldonis company.

With these key claims surviving, Lively is preparing to testify and reveal what her lawyers call online retaliation tactics. The case is far from over, and it will continue to draw attention as it heads to trial, shedding light on power dynamics in Hollywood.

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