Blake Lively Claims Justin Baldoni Made Others on Set ‘Uncomfortable’
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In a recent development in the ongoing legal dispute between actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, Lively has filed an amended complaint accusing Baldoni of making other women on set feel ‘uncomfortable’. The 163-page amended filing was submitted to a New York federal court on Tuesday, Feb. 18, as Lively sought to update her original lawsuit, filed on Dec. 31, against Baldoni and others involved in the production of “It Ends With Us”. Lively’s legal team, represented by Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, state that the amended complaint includes additional evidence and corroborates her initial allegations. It also brings forth previously undisclosed communications involving Lively, Sony, Wayfarer Studios, and various witnesses.
Moreover, the amended complaint introduces a new claim of defamation, grounded in what Lively’s lawyers assert to be false statements made by the defendants about Lively since the original complaint was lodged. The amended complaint further names Jed Wallace and his company as additional defendants, with Wallace himself pursuing legal action against Lively and refuting any involvement in a smear campaign. Lively’s spokesperson highlighted that the amended filing serves to underline the substantiation supporting Lively’s original allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation. The spokesperson noted that other women also disclosed their discomfort and fears to Lively, expressing apprehension about speaking out publicly amidst the current contentious environment.
On the other hand, representatives for Baldoni have yet to publicly respond to requests for comment on the amended complaint. The legal battle between Lively and Baldoni has been escalating, with Baldoni amending his countersuit against Lively, Ryan Reynolds, their publicist, and The New York Times on Jan. 31. The case is scheduled for trial in March 2026, after both parties decided against pursuing mediation. As part of the discovery process, Lively’s legal team recently issued subpoenas seeking access to Baldoni’s phone records, aiming to shed light on the strategies and individuals involved in besmirching Lively’s reputation over the past year.
The escalating tension between Lively and Baldoni’s camps has drawn the attention of U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, who cautioned both parties against litigating their dispute through the media. The judge further warned that he may expedite the trial date should the public verbal sparring persist. The contentious nature of the legal battle has not gone unnoticed, with an apparent risk of damaging reputations on both sides if the situation drags on.
The legal wrangling between Lively and Baldoni highlights the complexities and challenges that can arise in the entertainment industry, particularly when disputes involve allegations of misconduct. Such cases serve as a reminder of the importance of workplace ethics and the need for clear protocols to address grievances in a fair and transparent manner. As the legal saga unfolds, it remains to be seen how the court will adjudicate the conflicting claims and bring resolution to the protracted conflict between the two actors. The ripple effects of this high-profile dispute may prompt a broader conversation within the industry about accountability, transparency, and ensuring a safe and respectful working environment for all involved.