A federal judge has dismissed several of actress Blake Lively’s sexual assault claims against former co-star Justin Baldoni.
Judge Lewis Liman threw out 10 of 13 allegations in Lively’s case, including harassment, defamation and conspiracy.
These allegations stem from an ongoing legal battle between Lively and Baldoni after Lively filed a lawsuit following the release of the 2024 film “It Ends With Us.” The lawsuit accused Baldoni of sexual harassment on the set of the film.
Lively also alleged that Baldoni launched a “multi-tiered” smear campaign against her on social media in retaliation for her speaking out, leading to $161 million in lost earnings and damages.
Baldoni and his production company counter-sued Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, accusing them of defamation and extortion. However, this lawsuit was dismissed by a federal judge in June 2025.
In February of 2026, Baldoni and Lively attended a court-ordered settlement conference, but no agreement was reached.
Why Were the Claims Dismissed?
In his 152-page ruling, Judge Liman listed several reasons for dismissing the majority of the allegations against Baldoni.
Since the filming of the movie took place in New Jersey, the harassment claims that Lively filed under California law were invalid. Other claims of retaliation and harassment were also invalid because Lively is an independent contractor. Therefore, she does not have the legal protections of an employee.
Judge Liman argued that creative artists should have the ability to experiment “within the bounds of an agreed script” without the risk of being sued for sexual harassment.
The three remaining claims include breach of contract, retaliation and aiding and abetting retaliation.
Blake’s Response
In response to the dismissal of her claims, Lively published a statement on her Instagram story, expressing her determination to continue fighting.
“I’m grateful for the Court’s ruling which allows the heart of my case to be presented to a jury next month, and for the ability to finally tell my story in full at trial, for my own sake, but also for those who don’t have the same opportunity to… many of whom I have known and loved deeply in my life, and the countless I’ll never know,” – Blake Lively
Baldoni’s Response
Meanwhile, Baldoni’s legal team released their own statement, claiming they are “very pleased” with the court’s decision.
“These were very serious allegations, and we are grateful to the Court for its careful review of the facts, law, and voluminous evidence that was provided,”- Justin Baldoni’s legal team.
Unless the parties settle, the case will go to civil trial on May 18. Lively plans to testify.
What is your opinion on the case? Tag us, @VALLEYmag, and let us know!
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