Blake Lively vows to fight on after judge dismisses most sexual harassment claims against Justin Baldoni
Actress Blake Lively said she will continue her fight after a federal judge dismissed most of her sexual harassment claims against her “It Ends With Us” director and co-star, Justin Baldoni.
In a detailed 152-page ruling Thursday, U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed 10 of Lively’s 13 claims, including harassment, defamation, and conspiracy. Three claims—breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting in retaliation—were allowed to proceed to trial, which is set for May 18.
Lively shared a statement on Instagram Friday, expressing gratitude that the case will move forward to trial, giving her the chance to “tell [her] story in full.” She said the lawsuit stemmed from ongoing retaliation she faced after privately and professionally advocating for a safe working environment for herself and others. Lively also encouraged potential victims to speak out about “retaliation and digital warfare,” emphasizing the real physical and emotional harm of such abuse.
The lawsuit, which first gained attention in 2024, alleges that Baldoni engaged in unwanted sexual contact during the production of the film and that his company, Wayfarer Studios, retaliated against Lively for reporting misconduct. Lively’s attorneys said she was “kissed, nuzzled, and touched” without consent, while Baldoni was “consistently inappropriate” on set.
Baldoni’s lawyers welcomed the dismissal of the harassment claims, describing the ruling as a careful review of the evidence and law. They said the remaining claims now form a “significantly narrowed case” and look forward to defending against them in court.
The judge ruled that 10 of the claims could not proceed under federal civil rights law, partly because Lively was an independent contractor, not an employee. Lively’s attorney, Mike Gottlieb, said the court confirmed she had provided evidence to move forward on her core claims, showing that she spoke up about Baldoni’s behavior and suffered harm to her reputation and career as a result. Gottlieb stressed that some claims were dismissed for legal reasons, not as an endorsement of Baldoni or his company.
Lively said she remains committed to exposing systems and individuals who retaliate against victims. “I will never stop doing my part in fighting to expose the systems and people who seek to harm, shame, silence, and retaliate against victims,” she wrote. “I know it's a privilege to be able to stand up. I will not waste it.”
The trial is scheduled to begin May 18.
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