Judge dismisses Lively sex harassment claim against Baldoni

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A US judge has dismissed sexual harassment claims brought by actor Blake Lively against her co-star Justin Baldoni, who also directed the film 'It Ends with Us.' The judge also dismissed Lively's defamation and conspiracy claims, but her claims of retaliation and breach of contract against Baldoni still stand as their civil trial approaches in May.

Why it matters

This high-profile case has shed light on the ongoing challenges of addressing allegations of misconduct in the entertainment industry, where power dynamics and public relations battles can complicate the pursuit of justice.

The details

Lively had filed a complaint alleging that Baldoni spoke inappropriately about his sex life, sought to alter the film to include unauthorized sex scenes, and that producer Jamey Heath watched Lively while she was topless despite being asked to turn away. Baldoni and the studio Wayfarer countersued Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds with claims of extortion and defamation, but those claims were dismissed last year.

• The judge dismissed the claims on April 5, 2026.
• The civil trial between Lively and Baldoni is scheduled for May 18, 2026.

What’s next

The civil trial between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni is scheduled for May 18, 2026, where Lively's remaining claims of retaliation and breach of contract will be heard.