In a major setback for Blake Lively in her ongoing lawsuit against It Ends With Us director and co-star Justin Baldoni, a federal judge dismissed 10 of her 13 claims on Thursday, April 2nd – including allegations of sexual harassment, defamation, and conspiracy.
And the situation may be about to get even more difficult for the Gossip Girl alum, 38, as Baldoni, 42, is now expected to testify in person when the case goes to trial in May 2026. Keep reading for more info…
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The Legal Battle Has Been 'Emotionally Taxing' For Blake Lively
Earlier this month, an insider revealed that the ongoing legal battle has taken its toll on the Age of Adaline actress, describing the entire ordeal as "emotionally taxing."
"She didn't file this lawsuit thinking it would be easy. She knew it would be a long, challenging process, but she felt it was something she needed to do," the insider reportedly said.
"The legal battle has been emotionally taxing, but Blake has stayed focused," they went on, adding that the allegations have "never changed and she's looking forward to her day in court. She's balancing this with all her responsibilities at home. As a mom, she has many other priorities which help her stay grounded."
What's The Latest In The Blake Lively And Justin Baldoni Legal Battle?
The Another Simple Favor star's legal team initially filed 13 claims, but the majority were thrown out by Judge Lewis Liman – largely due to her status as an independent contractor rather than an employee. Crucially, the judge did not rule that the allegations themselves were false, but instead found that many were not legally viable under employment law.
That distinction hasn't stopped the Jane the Virgin actor's camp from viewing the decision as a significant win, though. According to reports, the case is now expected to proceed on a much narrower scope, with only claims of breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting retaliation remaining – all of which Baldoni denies.
The mom-of-four is reportedly not giving up without a fight, and is said to be preparing an extensive case for trial. She is said to be lining up 41 witnesses (yes, 41!) with husband Ryan Reynolds, It Ends With Us co-stars Jenny Slate and Isabela Ferrer, and It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover among the potential names on the list. She has reportedly also compiled around 1,000 items for her exhibit list, with more expected to be added.
Justin Baldoni Will Reportedly Take The Stand Next Month
In a court filing submitted earlier this month, Baldoni's legal team confirmed that he intends to take the stand when proceedings begin on May 18th. Although he is no longer a defendant following the dismissal of several claims, his testimony is still considered central to the case. It Ends With Us producer Jamey Heath and publicist Melissa Nathan – who were also dismissed as defendants – are also expected to testify.
The judge has, however, allowed claims to move forward against Baldoni's production company, as well as the crisis PR firm it hired. Explaining the decision for Baldoni to testify, his lawyer Ellyn S. Garofalo wrote that his evidence "remains relevant to refute Plaintiff's false allegations of a smear campaign that purportedly [was] orchestrated to smear Ms. Lively."
In a separate letter to the court, Baldoni's legal team reiterated that he will appear in person because his testimony is key to challenging what they again described as "false allegations of a smear campaign."
Information is correct at the time of writing. This remains an ongoing story and may be updated as more details become available.
