Blake Lively's harassment claims against Baldoni partially dismissed

Judge tosses sexual harassment claims but allows retaliation case to proceed

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:42am

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An abstract close-up image of shattered glass and crumpled red velvet fabric, conveying a sense of fractured power dynamics and tarnished glamour in the entertainment industry.The dismissal of harassment claims but allowance of retaliation case in the Lively v. Baldoni lawsuit reflects the complex challenges of addressing misconduct allegations in Hollywood.Manhattan Today

A federal judge in New York has dismissed Blake Lively's sexual harassment claims against actor Justin Baldoni over the movie 'It Ends With Us', but left intact her claims for retaliation. The written ruling by Judge Lewis J. Liman in Manhattan federal court found insufficient evidence to support the harassment allegations, though the retaliation case will move forward.

Why it matters

This high-profile case involving two prominent Hollywood figures has drawn significant attention to the ongoing challenges of addressing sexual misconduct allegations in the entertainment industry, where power dynamics and complex production relationships can make it difficult to prove harassment claims.

The details

In his ruling, Judge Liman determined that Lively's allegations of sexual harassment by Baldoni did not meet the legal threshold to proceed, citing a lack of evidence that the alleged behavior was 'severe or pervasive' enough to create a hostile work environment. However, the judge allowed Lively's claims of retaliation to continue, finding she had presented sufficient evidence that she faced professional consequences after reporting Baldoni's actions.

  • The alleged incidents occurred during the production of the 2023 film 'It Ends With Us'.
  • Lively filed the lawsuit against Baldoni in February 2025.
  • The judge issued his written ruling on the case on April 2, 2026.

The players

Blake Lively

An American actress known for her roles in films such as 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' and 'Gossip Girl'.

Justin Baldoni

An American actor, director and producer, best known for his role in the TV series 'Jane the Virgin'.

Judge Lewis J. Liman

A federal judge presiding over the case in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.

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What they’re saying

“We are disappointed that the court dismissed the sexual harassment claims, but we are pleased that the retaliation claims will proceed. Ms. Lively remains committed to holding all wrongdoers accountable.”

— Lawyer for Blake Lively

“Mr. Baldoni maintains his innocence and looks forward to clearing his name at trial on the remaining claims.”

— Spokesperson for Justin Baldoni

What’s next

A trial date has not yet been set for the remaining retaliation claims against Justin Baldoni.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing allegations of sexual misconduct in the entertainment industry, where power dynamics and complex production relationships can make it difficult to prove harassment claims. While the sexual harassment allegations were dismissed, the retaliation case will proceed, underscoring the importance of protecting those who come forward with reports of wrongdoing.