Blake Lively Finds Relief as Justin Baldoni’s Lawsuit Gets Dismissed
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Actress Blake Lively was overwhelmed with relief upon hearing the news that Justin Baldoni’s $400 million lawsuit against her had been dismissed by the judge on June 9. The insider reports shared with PEOPLE reveal that Lively, aged 37, broke into tears upon learning that Judge Lewis J. Liman had thrown out Baldoni’s countersuit, accusing Lively and her spouse Ryan Reynolds of extortion and defamation.
Sources close to Lively shared, “She’s obviously relieved. They both are. She feels vindicated.” The entire legal team, according to another source, expressed happiness over the ruling. Despite multiple attempts to get a response from Baldoni’s lawyers regarding the judge’s decision, no comments have been provided to PEOPLE on the matter. The trial between the two parties is scheduled for March 2026.
Blake Lively’s attorneys, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, released a statement lauding the judge’s ruling as a “total victory and complete vindication” for their client. This victory comes after Lively filed a lawsuit against her It Ends With Us co-star, Baldoni, in December 2024 for sexual harassment and retaliation, claims that Baldoni has vehemently denied. The statement also mentioned plans to seek damages against Baldoni and the other Wayfarer Parties involved in what they deemed as “abusive litigation.”
Additionally, Baldoni’s $250 million defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, pertaining to their coverage of Lively’s CRD complaint, was also thrown out by the judge. Lively, in response to the article published by The Times in December 2024, expressed hope that her legal actions would expose and deter such retaliatory tactics against those who speak out against misconduct.
During an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers in May 2025, Lively hinted at the challenges she had been facing, referencing an intense year with both highs and lows. Her husband, Ryan Reynolds, publicly praised her in April 2025, commending her strength amidst adversity and expressing admiration for her resilience. Reynolds described Lively as a pillar of strength in the face of adversity, highlighting her grace and fortitude.
Support for Lively poured in from her friend and former co-star Amber Tamblyn, who took to Instagram to express her pride, hailing Lively’s legal victory as a win for women who speak out against injustice. The unfolding legal battle between Lively and Baldoni has captured public attention, with each development shedding light on the challenges individuals face in seeking justice and standing up against misconduct.
As the legal saga continues to unfold, fans and onlookers remain engaged in the ongoing narrative of strength, resilience, and justice. The dismissal of Baldoni’s lawsuit marks a significant moment of vindication for Lively, reflecting her unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.
The journey towards justice and truth is ongoing, with each development in the case underscoring the complexities and challenges inherent in seeking accountability and vindication. Lively’s unwavering determination and resolve serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.