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Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are embroiled in a contentious legal battle stemming from their collaboration on the film *It Ends With Us*. Newly unsealed court documents reveal troubling allegations that have escalated tensions between the actress and director, raising questions about workplace conduct and accountability in Hollywood.
Why It Matters
This case highlights ongoing issues of harassment and misconduct in the entertainment industry, bringing to light the struggles many face when navigating power dynamics on set. As high-profile individuals grapple with these allegations, the outcome could set precedents regarding how such claims are handled in Hollywood and the broader implications for workplace safety in film production.
Key Developments
- Blake Lively has filed a lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and launching a smear campaign against her.
- Text messages reveal Lively’s disparaging remarks about Baldoni, referring to him as a “doofus director” and a “clown”.
- Lively’s legal team claims the unsealed communications illustrate a pattern of harassment that was not adequately addressed by Baldoni’s production company, Wayfarer Studios.
- In response, Baldoni’s legal representatives assert that the evidence does not support Lively’s claims, defending him as well as the company.
- A previous counter-suit filed by Baldoni was dismissed by a judge last June, while Lively’s lawsuit is scheduled for trial in May.
Full Report
Allegations and Text Messages
According to recently unsealed documents from Lively’s ongoing legal case, the star has made serious allegations of harassment against Baldoni, who directed *It Ends With Us*. The messages indicate a deterioration of their working relationship as Lively described Baldoni in unflattering terms, dubbing him a “rabid pig” and criticizing him for creating a hostile environment on set. In one instance, she expressed her frustration after feeling “smeared” for requesting a more professional atmosphere.
Legal representatives for Lively argue that the evidence captures her concerns about Baldoni’s behavior, which was reportedly dismissed by his team. They allege that Wayfarer Studios failed to respond adequately to the accusations, effectively attempting to silence Lively and others who spoke out.
Counterclaims and Defense
Baldoni vociferously denies the allegations made against him and his production company, Wayfarer Studios. His attorney, Bryan Feldman, indicated that the released text messages do not substantiate Lively’s claims, maintaining that the evidence viewed in its entirety would clear Baldoni of wrongdoing. Concerns regarding Lively’s potential leverage in the matter were also communicated through Baldoni’s messages, implying that the actress might manipulate the situation to her advantage.
Reactions from Associates
The documents also contain communications from various associates. Lively confided in singer Taylor Swift about her distress over the filming environment, which she described as emotionally taxing. Another associate, Liz Plank, echoed similar sentiments, categorizing the experiences on Baldoni’s set as among the worst in her career, while co-star Jenny Slate reported misconduct that led her to express apprehension regarding returning to the set.
Context & Previous Events
Lively filed her lawsuit against Baldoni in December 2024, marking a significant escalation in their mutual disputes following the filming of *It Ends With Us*, which was released in August 2024. Baldoni’s counter-suit, demanding $400 million, was dismissed last June, but the legal aftermath continues to unfold, with a trial date set for May.
