A federal judge on Thursday dismissed actress Blake Lively’s sexual harassment allegations against her It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni, but her multimillion-dollar lawsuit over defamation and retaliation is still set for trial next month in New York City. Reacting to the ruling, Lively shared a strong statement slamming those calling the lawsuit a “celebrity drama”. The actor also warned about the growing threat of digital manipulation.
Blake Lively slams those calling lawsuit celebrity drama
On Monday, Blake took to Instagram to share a statement expressing her gratitude after a judge dismissed 10 out of 13 claims in her lawsuit against Baldoni.
The actor continued, “The last thing I wanted in my life was a lawsuit, but I brought this case because of the pervasive retaliation I faced, and continue to, for privately and professionally asking for a safe working environment for myself and others. I hope the court`s decision shows others that, as unfathomably painful as it is, you can speak up. Don`t be distracted by the digital soap opera. The constant packaging of this lawsuit as a ‘celebrity drama’ is not only irresponsible, but it is by design: to keep you from seeing yourselves in my story. The physical pain from digital violence is very real.”
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“It is abuse. And it`s everywhere—not just in the news, but in your communities and schools. If you`re looking, my claims won`t be the first or last time you`ll see examples of the extreme dangers of retaliation and digital warfare. And it often won`t be directed at celebrities or those who may be able to speak up,” added the actor.
Blake Lively warned that digital manipulation affects everyone across the political spectrum and is often hard to trace.
About Lively and Baldoni’s legal battle
In December 2024, Baldoni`s It Ends With Us co-star Lively, 37, sued him and others, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation, which he denies. Baldoni then countersued Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and others, claiming extortion and defamation.
The dispute, which began in 2024, has drawn widespread attention due to its high-profile nature and the serious allegations involved. It has also sparked broader conversations within the entertainment industry about workplace conduct, power dynamics, and the challenges of addressing such issues through legal channels. Baldoni has consistently denied all allegations. His legal team welcomed the dismissal of the majority of claims, calling it a significant step in defending his position.
Attempts at mediation earlier this year failed, leaving both parties poised to face a jury in late May.
