Justin Baldoni responds to dismissal of Blake Livelys sexual harassment claims
3 minute readPublished: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 12:08 am
Judge Dismisses Most Claims in Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni Case
A judge has dismissed the majority of Blake Lively's claims against Justin Baldoni, marking a significant development in the ongoing legal battle between the two actors. The court ruled to dismiss 10 of the 13 claims Lively brought against Baldoni, leaving a significantly narrowed case to proceed.
Baldoni's legal team expressed their satisfaction with the court's decision, stating they were "very pleased" with the dismissal of all sexual harassment claims and those against individual defendants. They emphasized their gratitude for the court's review of the facts and evidence.
The remaining claims against Baldoni include breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting in retaliation. Lively's attorney clarified that the sexual harassment allegations were dismissed not because the defendants were found innocent, but because the court determined Lively was an independent contractor, not an employee. The focus of the case, according to Lively's legal representation, remains on the alleged retaliation and efforts to damage Lively's reputation.
The legal dispute began in December 2025 when Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment during the filming of "It Ends With Us." She officially sued Baldoni in December 2024, alleging she suffered financial losses due to a smear campaign. Baldoni denied the allegations and initially filed a $400 million countersuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, which was later dismissed. The case has also involved other celebrities, including Taylor Swift, through unsealed documents. The two co-stars last met during an unsuccessful settlement conference in February.
BNN's Perspective:
This case highlights the complexities of legal battles in the entertainment industry. While the dismissal of the sexual harassment claims is a win for Baldoni, the remaining charges of retaliation and breach of contract suggest the legal proceedings are far from over. The focus on alleged reputational damage and the involvement of other high-profile figures underscore the high stakes involved and the potential for lasting impact on the careers of those involved.
Keywords: Justin Baldoni, Blake Lively, sexual harassment, lawsuit, defamation, breach of contract, retaliation, legal battle, court, dismissal, allegations, It Ends With Us, Ryan Reynolds, Taylor Swift, settlement conference