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Entertainment · Film Industry · Lawsuit · Retaliation
A federal judge dismissed Blake Lively's sexual harassment claims against co-star and director Justin Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, but allowed three other claims, including retaliation and breach of contract, to proceed to a jury trial scheduled for May 18, 2026.
Judge Lewis J. Liman ruled Lively was an independent contractor, not an employee, precluding sexual harassment claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Baldoni's countersuit for defamation and extortion against Lively and Ryan Reynolds was dismissed in June 2025.
While the judge acknowledged Baldoni's alleged conduct, such as kissing and touching, would typically constitute hostile work environment behavior, he determined it occurred within the context of acting a scene. However, the court found evidence suggesting Wayfarer Studios planned to damage Lively's reputation and career, supporting the retaliation claims.
Lively's attorney, Sigrid McCawley, stated the case remains focused on "devastating retaliation" and destroying Lively's reputation. The film "It Ends With Us" debuted with $50 million in August 2024, exceeding box office expectations.
