NEW YORK – Recently, a federal judge made a significant ruling regarding Blake Lively’s sexual harassment claims against Justin Baldoni related to their movie “It Ends With Us.” While some of Lively’s claims were dismissed, others, especially those concerning retaliation, will still be heard by a jury, ensuring that the case continues to unfold in the public eye.
The ruling was issued by Judge Lewis J. Liman in Manhattan after Lively, who not only starred in but also produced the film, filed her lawsuit in December 2024. A trial date has been set for May 18, 2025.
In response to Lively’s claims, Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, countersued her and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, alleging defamation and extortion. However, the judge dismissed Baldoni’s claims last June, allowing Lively’s case to move forward.
Judge Liman ruled that Lively was considered an independent contractor rather than an employee. This distinction meant that she was not entitled to file sexual harassment claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a law designed to prevent employment discrimination based on gender among other factors.
However, the judge noted that there was sufficient evidence for a jury to consider retaliation claims. Lively alleges that Baldoni’s production company attempted to damage her reputation and career out of fear that she would file a discrimination claim. Judge Liman highlighted the impact of what Lively described as a “smear campaign” on her professional life.
In assessing the sexual harassment claims, the judge referenced specific incidents during filming. Lively alleged that Baldoni engaged in inappropriate behavior, such as leaning in to kiss her forehead, rubbing his face against her neck, and other physical gestures that made her uncomfortable. The judge acknowledged that, if such actions occurred in a different workplace setting, they could indeed support a hostile work environment claim.
However, Liman explained that since Baldoni was “acting in the scene” as part of their film, his behavior did not necessarily equate to harassment. He emphasized that creative professionals need some freedom to explore their roles without the fear of being accused of sexual harassment, as long as their actions remain within the context of the agreed-upon script.
Despite dismissing some of Lively’s claims, the judge allowed several to proceed, particularly those involving retaliation against Lively, as well as a breach of contract claim against the film’s production company.
Notably, the judge cited Baldoni’s comment that Lively looked “pretty hot” after she removed her jacket, which had a lace bra underneath. This comment was reportedly made despite warnings that it was inappropriate. Additionally, Baldoni allegedly insisted that Lively perform a birth scene while naked, and the filming occurred over several hours without closing the set to non-essential personnel.
In response to the ruling, Lively’s attorney, Sigrid McCawley, expressed her client’s determination to proceed to trial, emphasizing the importance of addressing online retaliation and the steps taken by the defendants to harm Lively’s reputation for advocating safety on set.
The film “It Ends With Us,” based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, was released in August 2024. Despite the controversy surrounding the production, it achieved a successful box office debut, surpassing expectations with $50 million in earnings. However, the film’s release was marred by speculation regarding the tensions between Lively and Baldoni.
Blake Lively is known for her roles in “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” and “Gossip Girl,” while Justin Baldoni gained fame from “Jane the Virgin” and has directed and produced various projects.
