In a significant development in the ongoing legal dispute between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, a federal judge has dismissed the majority of claims brought by Lively against her co-star in the film *It Ends with Us*. The ruling, delivered on 2 April 2026, by Judge Lewis J. Liman of the Southern District of New York, found in favour of Baldoni regarding ten of the thirteen allegations put forth by Lively.
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Baldoni’s legal representatives expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We’re very pleased the Court dismissed all sexual harassment claims.” This statement was released through PEOPLE and indicated relief over the dismissal of not only the harassment claims but also those concerning defamation and conspiracy. The legal team, comprising Alexandra Shapiro and Jonathan Bach, underscored the seriousness of the allegations while also acknowledging the thorough review conducted by the court.
Despite these positive developments for Baldoni, two key claims from Lively’s lawsuit remain intact and will proceed to trial. These include a breach of contract allegation and a retaliation claim tied to the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), aimed at Baldoni’s production company, Wayfarer Studios. The conflicting events stem from a series of allegations and counterclaims exchanged between the two actors since late 2024.
The situation initially escalated in December 2024 when Lively, known for her role in *Gossip Girl*, filed a sexual harassment report against Baldoni. In those allegations, she claimed misconduct had occurred on the set of their romantic drama and accused Baldoni of orchestrating a smear campaign in retaliation. Baldoni has consistently denied these allegations and has taken legal action of his own, filing counterclaims of extortion and defamation against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, which were reportedly dismissed by Judge Liman in mid-2025.
Following this latest ruling, Sigrid McCawley, a legal advocate representing Lively, remarked that the court’s decision stemmed not from a dismissal of wrongdoing on the defendants’ part, but rather from a determination that Lively functioned as an independent contractor rather than an employee during the production of the film. The implications of this classification are significant, as it affects the scope of harassment claims that can be made in employment-related disputes.
The most recent court proceedings followed a settlement conference mandated by the court on 11 February 2026, which ultimately did not result in an agreement between the two parties. As the situation currently stands, both Baldoni and Lively are expected to take the stand during the anticipated trial set to commence on 18 May 2026 in New York.
Public interest remains high as the legal battle unfolds, reflecting broader themes concerning workplace conduct and the dynamics within the film industry. As both actors prepare to present their respective cases in court, many are keenly watching how this high-profile dispute will resolve and what precedent it may set for similar cases moving forward.
In the eyes of the public and industry insiders alike, the decision to narrow the claims against Baldoni has prompted varying reactions, with each side bracing for what lies ahead. The implications of the remaining claims will be scrutinised closely, as both actors navigate the complexities of their professional and personal reputations in the limelight.
With the legal saga still ongoing, it is evident that the fallout from the production of *It Ends with Us* will continue to exert influence on both Baldoni and Lively, extending far beyond the courtroom as both stars contend with the ramifications of their turbulent collaboration.