Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Battle in Lawsuit Over ‘It Ends With Us’

In a notable legal dispute that has captured the entertainment industry’s attention, actress Blake Lively has initiated multiple lawsuits against director and co-star Justin Baldoni related to their film, It Ends With Us. The conflict escalated in 2025 with Lively’s allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation, prompting Baldoni to counter with a $400 million countersuit. The ongoing litigation includes various claims, counterclaims, and a trial scheduled to begin on March 9, 2026, in New York.

Lively first filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department on December 21, 2024, accusing Baldoni of creating a hostile work environment during the production of their film. Her allegations included unwanted comments, inappropriate conduct, and a smear campaign aimed at damaging her reputation. Reports suggested that Lively requested a meeting to address these issues, attended by her husband, Ryan Reynolds, and cast members, where she made several specific demands regarding workplace conduct.

Among the serious allegations, Lively claimed Baldoni engaged in manipulative tactics against her, including a campaign that involved sharing messages with studio representatives indicating a desire to undermine her. Her complaint was supported by another unnamed actress who also raised concerns about Baldoni’s behavior on set.

Baldoni’s legal team, led by attorney Bryan Freedman, responded promptly, labeling Lively’s allegations as “completely false” and asserting that they were aimed at salvaging her public image. Freedman accused Lively of making demands throughout the production process, threatening to withdraw from promotional activities if her requests were not met.

Following Lively’s initial filing and Baldoni’s countersuit in January 2025, which claimed damages for reputational harm, the situation intensified. In June 2025, Lively’s side celebrated a partial victory when a judge dismissed Baldoni’s countersuit, enabling them to claim “total victory and complete vindication.” However, this ruling did not conclude the legal strife, as the trial concerning Lively’s original claims is still forthcoming.

In the wake of the legal battle, several public figures and organizations have weighed in. Sony Pictures, the studio behind the film, expressed support for Lively’s efforts to create a safer work environment. Furthermore, the acting union SAG-AFTRA commended her courage in addressing issues of harassment and retaliation within the industry.

The legal proceedings have also drawn in additional personalities, including pop star Taylor Swift, who was mentioned in the context of the legal drama but ultimately had her subpoena rescinded. The involvement of high-profile figures has attracted significant media attention, with various statements highlighting the complexities of the case.

As the trial date approaches, both parties are preparing for a lengthy legal confrontation. Lively has stated her intention to testify, emphasizing the importance of her claims and the impact of the allegations on her career. Her legal representatives are poised to counter Baldoni’s assertions of a smear campaign and are prepared to present evidence supporting Lively’s allegations of harassment and retaliation.

With the trial set for March 9, 2026, the outcome remains uncertain. The case exemplifies the ongoing discussions surrounding workplace conduct in Hollywood and the challenges faced by individuals who speak out against alleged misconduct. As both sides gear up for the courtroom battle, the implications of this high-profile lawsuit will likely resonate throughout the entertainment industry and beyond.