A judge dismissed the lawsuit filed by actor and director Justin Baldoni against his “It Ends With Us” co-star Blake Lively, following her sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit against him last year. This ruling marks the latest turn in the contentious legal dispute linked to the dark romantic film.
U.S. District Court Judge Lewis Liman ruled that Baldoni cannot sue Lively for defamation based on the allegations she made in her lawsuit, as statements made during legal proceedings are protected from libel claims. Additionally, Baldoni’s accusations that Lively stole creative control of the film did not meet the legal definition of extortion under California law.
However, the judge allowed Baldoni the opportunity to amend his lawsuit if he wishes to pursue claims related to alleged contract breaches or interference. Baldoni’s legal team indicated plans to file revised claims.
Baldoni’s lawyer Bryan Freedman responded to the ruling, saying Lively’s declaration of victory was premature and maintained that the sexual harassment allegations and the alleged smear campaign against Baldoni remain untrue.
“It Ends With Us,” adapted from Colleen Hoover’s bestselling 2016 novel, explores a romantic relationship that turns dark due to domestic violence. Released in August, the film exceeded box office expectations with a $50 million debut but was clouded by reports of tensions between Lively and Baldoni during production.
The judge also dismissed Baldoni’s defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, which had reported on Lively’s sexual harassment claims.
Lively’s attorneys called the decision a complete victory and expressed readiness to pursue further legal actions, including seeking attorney fees and punitive damages.
A spokesperson for The New York Times expressed gratitude for the court’s recognition that the lawsuit was an unfounded attempt to suppress truthful journalism. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of their reporters covering matters of public interest fairly and thoroughly.
Blake Lively is known for her roles in “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” the TV series “Gossip Girl,” and films like “The Town” and “The Shallows.” Justin Baldoni gained fame from the TV comedy “Jane the Virgin,” directed the film “Five Feet Apart,” and authored “Man Enough,” a book challenging traditional ideas about masculinity.
