Blake Lively refuses to settle Justin Baldoni case after leaked remarks

The prolonged legal conflict between "It Ends With Us" stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni shows no indication of resolution. In a court filing dated December 4, Livelys attorneys emphasized that she is entitled to her day in court, responding to a motion by Baldonis lead lawyer, Alexandra Shapiro, who sought to resolve her sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit without a jury trial.

Livelys legal team accused Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios CEO Jamey Heath of using their close personal relationship to shield misconduct on the set of the 2024 romantic film, asserting that they acted with a certain degree of impunity.

Although Lively is a prominent actress, on set, Heath and Baldoni exercised complete authority as lead actor, producer, director, co-chairman, president, and CEO, the filing stated. They controlled her schedule and pay, oversaw daily operations, handled HR issues, and influenced her working conditions.

The lawsuit, filed in late 2024, alleges that Baldoni engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior both on and off set and orchestrated a campaign to damage Livelys reputation.

Private Conversation Revealed

Reports indicate that a private discussion took place at Livelys New York apartment in December 2022 while she was pregnant. Baldoni mentioned his circumcision status unprompted during a conversation about whether Livelys baby would be circumcised. Multiple people, including assistants and a housekeeper, were reportedly present.

Baldoni told People that he has never discussed such personal matters with colleagues, stating, I dont talk about my genitalia.

Baldonis Allegations Against Lively

Court records also reveal that Baldoni accused Lively of portraying herself as a victim by following what he described as the Taylor Swift playbook. He shared these remarks with friends, including actor Rainn Wilson and musician Andy Grammer, after a meeting with Lively on January 3, which he called traumatizing.

If she doesnt promote the movie, she can portray me negatively or claim she felt unsafe, and then she becomes the victim. She can ask for anything because she knows I know, Baldoni wrote.

Legal Developments and Trial Date

In June, a judge dismissed Baldonis counterclaim of extortion, determining it lacked legal merit. The case was completely closed in October, and a trial is scheduled for March 9, 2026.

Author: Grace Ellison