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Blake Lively, 37, has filed a formal federal lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, her It Ends With Us co-star and director, alleging sexual harassment, retaliation, emotional distress, breach of contract, and other claims. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, also names Baldoni’s crisis manager, Melissa Nathan, publicist Jennifer Abel, and Wayfarer Studios as co-defendants.
In the suit, Lively accuses Baldoni of inappropriate on-set behavior during the filming of the romantic drama, which was released in August 2024. Allegations include Baldoni showing explicit content, discussing sexual topics, and making inappropriate remarks about her weight and personal life. A notable meeting during production addressed these issues, with her husband, Ryan Reynolds, reportedly in attendance.
Lively also alleges that Baldoni retaliated by hiring a crisis management team to smear her reputation, using social media manipulation and fabricated content to turn public opinion against her.
Her attorney’s statement claims the lawsuit is an attempt to expose “retaliatory tactics” in Hollywood and to protect others from similar harm.
Justin Baldoni’s Response
Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios have denied all allegations, calling Lively’s claims “categorically false.” Their attorney, Bryan Freedman, accused Lively of orchestrating a smear campaign to harm Baldoni’s reputation. According to Freedman, Lively made unreasonable demands during production, including threats not to promote the film.
Freedman also criticized Lively’s allegations as a calculated attempt to control the narrative around the film’s troubled release, arguing that any reputational damage was self-inflicted.
Baldoni’s Counter-Lawsuit Against The New York Times
In a parallel legal move, Baldoni, Wayfarer Studios, and others filed a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times. The lawsuit alleges that the publication engaged in “promissory fraud” and relied on manipulated evidence in its December 21 article that detailed Lively’s allegations.
Freedman described the article as part of a “vicious smear campaign” facilitated by The New York Times, accusing the outlet of journalistic malpractice and bias.
In response, the Times defended its reporting, citing a thorough review of evidence and stating that no factual errors have been identified by the plaintiffs.
Hollywood Reacts
The escalating legal battle has sparked widespread debate in the entertainment industry. Advocacy groups have praised Lively’s decision to take legal action, while others caution against rushing to judgment in the absence of conclusive evidence.
Social media reactions reflect a divide, with fans rallying behind both Lively and Baldoni. Many are calling for greater transparency and accountability in Hollywood’s handling of workplace misconduct.
What’s Next?
As both lawsuits move forward, they are expected to bring significant public scrutiny to the production of It Ends With Us and the broader issues of power dynamics and retaliation in Hollywood.
Lively’s attorneys have reserved the right to file additional lawsuits in other jurisdictions, while Baldoni and his team vow to pursue legal action against individuals they believe contributed to the “smear campaign.”
Industry Implications
This high-profile dispute underscores the growing tensions in Hollywood over workplace behavior and public accountability. With both sides accusing the other of manipulation and misconduct, the outcomes of these legal battles could set significant precedents for handling allegations of harassment and retaliation in the entertainment industry.
FAQs
1. What are the main allegations in Blake Lively’s lawsuit?
Lively accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, emotional distress, and invasion of privacy.
2. What is Justin Baldoni’s counterclaim?
Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios filed a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times, accusing it of publishing false and misleading information.
3. What is the status of the legal battle?
Both lawsuits are in their early stages, with legal teams for Lively and Baldoni presenting their cases in court.
4. How has The New York Times responded?
The newspaper stands by its reporting, stating it was based on extensive documentation and thorough investigation.
5. What impact could this have on Hollywood?
The lawsuits highlight ongoing issues of power dynamics, accountability, and the handling of workplace misconduct in the entertainment industry. The outcomes could influence future policies and practices.
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