A U.S. District Court judge has dismissed the lawsuit filed by actor and director Justin Baldoni against his co-star Blake Lively. This decision comes after Lively sued Baldoni last year, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation during the filming of their movie "It Ends With Us."
Judge Lewis Liman ruled that Baldoni cannot pursue defamation claims against Lively based on her allegations in her lawsuit. Under U.S. law, statements made in legal filings are generally protected from defamation claims. The judge also determined that Baldoni’s claims regarding Lively’s supposed control over the film do not qualify as extortion under California law.
Despite the setback, Baldoni has the option to amend his lawsuit to explore other claims related to contract breaches or interference. His legal team has indicated they may take this route.
Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, had countersued Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, for $400 million, accusing them of defamation and extortion. Following the judge’s ruling, Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, stated that Lively’s claims of harassment were still untrue.
"It Ends With Us," based on Colleen Hoover’s popular 2016 novel, was released in August. The film, which explores themes of romance and domestic violence, exceeded box office expectations with a $50 million opening. However, the film’s release was overshadowed by ongoing tensions between Baldoni and Lively.
The judge also dismissed Baldoni’s defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, which had reported on Lively’s allegations. Lively’s attorneys celebrated the ruling as a victory and expressed their eagerness to pursue legal fees and damages.
A spokesperson for The New York Times welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the importance of protecting journalistic integrity.
Lively is well-known for her roles in "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" and "Gossip Girl," while Baldoni gained fame from the series "Jane the Virgin." As this legal battle continues to unfold, both actors remain in the spotlight for reasons beyond their film work.