Key moments
On April 2, 2026, a federal judge dismissed the majority of Blake Lively’s sexual harassment claims against actor Justin Baldoni, marking a significant development in a case that has garnered widespread attention. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman ruled that out of the 13 claims filed by Lively, 10 were dismissed, leaving only a few allegations to proceed to trial.
The judge’s decision comes as Lively’s legal team contends that she was subjected to unwanted physical contact, including being kissed, nuzzled, and touched without her consent. The remaining claims that will go to trial include allegations of retaliation and breach of contract, which Lively asserts are rooted in a punitive smear campaign orchestrated by Baldoni.
This legal battle traces back to the production of the film “It Ends With Us,” which grossed approximately $350 million worldwide. Lively’s lawsuit was initially filed on December 31, 2024, and she claims to have suffered significant financial losses, amounting to $161 million, due to the alleged smear campaign against her.
In response to the court’s ruling, Baldoni’s attorneys expressed their satisfaction, stating, “These were very serious allegations, and we are grateful to the Court for its careful review of the facts, law and voluminous evidence.” This sentiment reflects the ongoing tensions between the parties involved as they prepare for the upcoming trial.
As the case moves forward, Lively’s attorney, Sigrid McCawley, emphasized the focus on the retaliation claims, asserting, “This case has always been and will remain focused on the devastating retaliation and the extraordinary steps the defendants took to destroy Blake Lively’s reputation because she stood up for safety on the set, and that is the case that is going to trial.” Lively herself has expressed eagerness to testify, aiming to highlight the issue of online retaliation.
While the judge’s ruling has narrowed the scope of Lively’s claims, the case continues to raise important questions about workplace conduct and retaliation in the post-#MeToo era. The legal landscape surrounding such allegations has evolved significantly, and this case could set precedents for future claims.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific nature of the evidence presented in court and how it influenced the judge’s decision. As the trial date approaches in May, both parties are preparing for what promises to be a contentious legal battle.
In a notable twist, Baldoni had previously filed a $400 million countersuit against Lively, which was dismissed, further complicating the legal dynamics between the two. As public interest in the case continues to grow, it remains to be seen how the trial will unfold and what implications it may have for both Lively and Baldoni.