A federal judge has dismissed the majority of Blake Lively's claims against Justin Baldoni, narrowing the case to just three counts ahead of a trial scheduled for May. Judge Lewis Liman threw out 10 of Lively's 13 claims, including allegations of sexual harassment, conspiracy, and defamation.
The remaining claims—breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting in retaliation—focus on Lively's assertion that Baldoni orchestrated a campaign to spread negative stories about her online. Lively's attorney, Sigrid McCawley, stated that the sexual harassment claims were dismissed because the court deemed Lively an independent contractor, not an employee, but emphasised that the case will proceed on the retaliation allegations.
The legal dispute stems from Lively's time working with Baldoni on the 2024 film It Ends With Us, a domestic violence drama that grossed over $350 million globally. Lively had accused Baldoni of inappropriate behaviour, including unwanted kissing and comments about her appearance and weight. Baldoni has denied the allegations.
Last June, Lively withdrew two emotional distress claims, while Judge Liman dismissed Baldoni's $400 million defamation counterclaim against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds. The litigation has also revealed private messages between Lively and celebrities like Taylor Swift, with Swift reportedly offering to help with the film's screenplay.
The case, which has drawn significant media attention, is set to go to trial in May after mediation failed last month. Legal experts have noted the damaging impact of the prolonged dispute on both parties' reputations.
