Federal Judge Dismisses Majority of Blake Lively's Claims in Justin Baldoni Lawsuit
In a significant legal development, a federal judge has dismissed the bulk of Blake Lively's lawsuit against her It Ends With Us director and co-star, Justin Baldoni. Judge Lewis Liman threw out 10 of the 13 claims on Thursday, including allegations of sexual harassment, conspiracy, and defamation, as the case moves toward a trial scheduled for next month.
Legal Team Responds to Court Ruling
Bryan Freedman, representing Justin Baldoni, issued a statement to the Associated Press, describing the defendants as "very good people who have not engaged in this sexual harassment as alleged." He added, "It is gratifying to see that the court's ruling confirms what the legal team believed from day one." In a separate comment to TMZ, Freedman emphasized that the defendants were not afraid of the truth and planned to present evidence to support their innocence.
Context of the Film and Judge's Reasoning
Judge Liman's 152-page opinion highlighted that Lively's claims must be viewed within the context of filming It Ends With Us, a domestic abuse drama featuring intimate scenes. The judge noted specific allegations, such as Baldoni leaning in as if to kiss Lively and other physical interactions, but concluded that Baldoni was "acting in the scene." Liman argued that creative artists need space to experiment within script bounds without fear of sexual harassment liability, distinguishing such behavior from incidents in non-artistic workplaces like factories or offices.
Independent Contractor Status Impacts Claims
Additionally, Judge Liman determined that Lively could not bring sexual harassment claims against Baldoni because she worked as an independent contractor on the film, not as an employee. This legal technicality played a crucial role in dismissing several claims, narrowing the case to focus on allegations of a negative retaliatory campaign.
Upcoming Trial and Statements from Both Sides
The lawsuit will proceed to trial on 18 May, centered on Lively's accusation that Baldoni and lead producer Jamey Heath engaged in a smear campaign against her reputation following rumors of a rift after the film's August 2024 release. Lively's attorney, Mike Gottlieb, responded to the ruling, stating that the dismissal was based on legal issues rather than an endorsement of the defendants' conduct. He criticized Freedman for claiming exoneration over technicalities while facing trial.
The Guardian has reached out to Baldoni's lawyers for further comment as the legal battle continues.
