Blake Lively’s Harassment Claims Against Justin Baldoni Largely Dismissed

A New York federal judge has largely dismissed actor Blake Lively’s sexual harassment claims against actor Justin Baldoni stemming from their work on the 2024 film “It Ends With Us,” but has allowed two retaliation claims to proceed. The ruling, issued on Thursday, April 2, 2026, marks a significant development in the highly publicized legal battle between the two actors.

Background: The “It Ends With Us” Controversy

The film, based on Colleen Hoover’s 2016 novel, was released in August 2024 to box office success. However, its production was quickly overshadowed by allegations of a hostile work environment and a smear campaign. Fans of the novel initially criticized Lively’s approach to the story’s sensitive themes of domestic violence and emotional abuse during interviews [1]. Reports soon emerged detailing conflict within the cast, with Baldoni’s role in promoting the film appearing diminished.

The Allegations and Lawsuits

Baldoni faced allegations of sexual harassment on set, although Lively was accused of creatively taking control of the film from Baldoni [1]. In December 2024, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, alleging that Baldoni created a hostile workplace through inappropriate comments. She subsequently sued Baldoni and his PR representatives, alleging retaliation for reporting the alleged harassment and workplace safety concerns [1].

Baldoni responded by suing The New York Times for defamation in December 2024, seeking $250 million in damages [1].

The Court Ruling

Judge Lewis J. Liman, in a ruling issued in Manhattan, determined that Lively, as an independent contractor, was not entitled to bring sexual harassment claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination [2], [3], [4].

The judge specifically dismissed Lively’s claims that Baldoni leaned in as if to kiss her, kissed her forehead, rubbed his face and mouth against her neck, touched her lip, caressed her, and made comments about her scent [3].

However, the judge allowed two of Lively’s retaliation claims to move forward [2], [3].

What’s Next?

A trial is scheduled to begin on May 18, focusing on the remaining retaliation claims [2], [3]. Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios had previously filed countersuits against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, alleging defamation and extortion, but those claims were dismissed last June [2].