In a decisive ruling, a federal judge has dismissed ten of Blake Lively’s thirteen claims against Justin Baldoni, including all sexual harassment allegations, fundamentally reshaping the high-stakes legal battle stemming from the film It Ends With Us.
The legal confrontation between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively has reached a pivotal moment, with Judge Lewis Liman dismissing 10 of Lively’s 13 claims against Baldoni. This ruling eliminates all allegations of sexual harassment, defamation, and conspiracy, leaving only breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting in retaliation to proceed to trial Us Weekly.
Baldoni’s legal team immediately hailed the decision as a major victory. “We’re very pleased the Court dismissed all sexual harassment claims and every claim brought against the individual defendants: Justin Baldoni, Jamey Heath, Steve Sarowitz, Melissa Nathan, and Jennifer Abel,” the attorneys stated, expressing gratitude for the court’s careful review of extensive evidence. The team emphasized that the remaining case is significantly narrowed and they are prepared to defend against the residual claims in court Us Weekly.
The Origins: From On-Set Conflict to Federal Court
The dispute originated in December 2024 when Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, alleging a hostile work environment during the production of It Ends With Us and accusing Baldoni, who directed and co-starred, of orchestrating a smear campaign. She later escalated by filing a lawsuit in New York, seeking damages for sexual harassment and related torts.
Baldoni countered with a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, which was dismissed by Judge Liman in June 2025. Lively publicly celebrated that dismissal, posting on Instagram about standing with organizations defending women’s rights and condemning retaliatory lawsuits Us Weekly.
Pretrial Twists and the Road to May Trial
Earlier this year, both parties engaged in a settlement conference, but Lively’s counsel, Michael Freedman, confirmed mediation was “unsuccessful,” indicating a trial was likely. In March, Lively’s legal team filed a letter urging the court to proceed with already gathered evidence, while Baldoni’s team accused them of a “document dump” and requested a pretrial postponement. Judge Liman granted a one-week delay, but the trial remains set for May 18.
The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday via Zoom, where the court will address logistics for the narrowed case. This hearing will be critical in setting the stage for what promises to be a closely watched trial focused on contractual and retaliation issues rather than the more sensational harassment claims.
Why This Ruling Reshapes the Entire Case
The dismissal of all harassment claims removes the emotional core of Lively’s lawsuit, which alleged a pattern of misconduct that fueled public sympathy. Without these allegations, the case transforms into a narrower dispute over contract terms and workplace retaliation, which may be less compelling to a jury and could limit potential damages.
For Baldoni, the ruling validates his long-held denial and strategically weakens Lively’s position. However, the remaining claims still carry substantial legal and reputational risks, particularly as evidence of contractual breaches or retaliatory actions could still emerge. The trial will now hinge on documentary evidence and testimony regarding the film’s production dynamics.
Fans of It Ends With Us, which sparked global conversations about domestic abuse, have been divided by the off-screen drama. While the legal proceedings are separate from the film’s artistic merit, the prolonged conflict threatens to overshadow the franchise’s legacy and any future projects involving the two stars. The court’s decision to focus on business-related claims may reduce media sensationalism but keeps the spotlight on the actors’ professional conduct.
As both sides prepare for trial, Baldoni’s vow to “march forward” signals an unwavering defense, while Lively’s team must now craft a coherent argument on the limited grounds that survive. The coming weeks will reveal how each side adapts to this new legal landscape, with the May trial date serving as the ultimate crucible.
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