Justin Baldoni’s Ex-Agent Alleges Blake Lively’s Conduct was ‘Extortion’
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In a recent deposition, details emerged about former Hollywood agent, Danny Greenberg, claiming that Blake Lively’s behaviour on set with actor Justin Baldoni constituted ‘extortion’. The revelation adds another layer to the ongoing legal saga surrounding the making of the movie ‘It Ends With Us’. Greenberg, who previously represented Baldoni during the filming of the movie, used strong language to describe the conflict between Lively and the director.
According to the deposition documents obtained by PEOPLE, Greenberg was involved in drafting emails to Sony, highlighting Lively’s alleged attempts to take control of the film through what he described as ‘extortionate’ behaviour. However, Greenberg clarified that he did not mean literal criminal extortion but rather referred to the challenging management of Lively’s cumulative actions on set.
The testimony also revealed Greenberg’s concerns about Lively’s conduct leading up to the movie’s premiere in August 2024. He reportedly discussed the issue with Sony production executive Ange Giannetti, specifically emphasizing Lively’s behaviour surrounding the premiere event.
The conflict between Lively and Baldoni escalated post-movie release when Lively filed a sexual harassment complaint against Baldoni, accusing him of misconduct during filming and initiating a retaliatory smear campaign. Baldoni, in turn, countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, alleging extortion and defamation. However, a judge dismissed Baldoni’s counterclaims in June, and his legal team opted not to appeal the decision.
Responding to the recent deposition revelations, a spokesperson for Lively dismissed Greenberg’s claims as a ‘recycled distraction’, emphasising that they were unrelated to the core sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit facing Baldoni and the Wayfarer Defendants. The spokesperson reiterated that the court had previously dismissed the claims against Lively regarding ‘taking over the movie’, highlighting that the ongoing legal battle is focused on the serious allegations of harassment and retaliation.
Despite the dismissal of the counterclaims, the legal tussle between the two parties continues, with the next status hearing scheduled for October 21 in the Southern District of New York. The trial, set for March 2026, will see both Lively and Baldoni taking the stand to testify, as indicated by their attorneys.
Lively, who has been vocal about standing up for women’s rights, previously shared her resolve to continue advocating for women’s safety and integrity. The case, which has garnered significant media attention, underscores the complexities within the entertainment industry and the challenges faced by individuals speaking out against misconduct.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the industry watches closely as the narrative surrounding ‘It Ends With Us’ takes unexpected turns, shedding light on the intricacies of power dynamics in Hollywood.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the courtroom drama unfolds.