**Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Set for Trial Over Legal Dispute**
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The ongoing legal battle between actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, who previously starred together in the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s *It Ends with Us*, is set to culminate in a trial beginning on May 18, 2026. This case has captured widespread attention since Lively initiated legal proceedings in December 2024, levelling several serious allegations against Baldoni and accompanying individuals.
The storyline of the case unfolds with Lively accusing Baldoni, who directed the film, of sexual harassment, along with allegations of orchestrating a retaliatory smear campaign aimed at damaging her public image. Lively’s claims extend beyond Baldoni to include producer Jamey Heath, Wayfarer Studios co-founder Steve Sarowitz, publicists Jennifer Abel and Melissa Nathan. Baldoni has categorically denied the allegations put forth by Lively.
In a surprising turn, Baldoni himself responded with a countersuit seeking $400 million in damages against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and publicist Leslie Sloane, alleging defamation and breach of contract. However, this countersuit was dismissed in June 2025 by federal judge Lewis J. Liman in the Southern District of New York.
Subsequently, on April 2, 2026, the court ruled in Baldoni’s favour, dismissing 10 out of the 13 claims made by Lively. The dismissed claims encompassed issues concerning harassment, defamation, and conspiracy, leaving three allegations that will proceed to trial. Judge Liman determined that several of Lively’s claims could not stand legally, particularly those that necessitated her classification as an employee of Baldoni or Wayfarer Studios.
Commenting on the court’s decision, Sigrid McCawley, a member of Lively’s legal team, explained that the dismissal of the sexual harassment claims stemmed from the court’s decision that Lively was deemed an independent contractor, rather than an employee. Despite this setback, the remaining claims rooted in breach of contract and a retaliation claim under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) have sufficient evidence to advance to court.
Lively’s representatives reiterated the focus of the case, emphasising that it will centre on the ‘devastating retaliation’ Lively faced for advocating for safety on set. McCawley stated, “This case has always been and will remain focused on the extraordinary steps the defendants took to destroy Blake Lively’s reputation because she stood up for safety on the set.”
As preparations for the trial progress, it has been confirmed that both Lively and Baldoni intend to testify when court proceedings commence in May 2026. Lively’s attorney, Mike Gottlieb, noted the importance of presenting Lively’s narrative in the courtroom, stating, “The ultimate moment for a plaintiff’s story to be told is at trial.”
In a statement following the court’s decision in early April, Baldoni’s legal team expressed satisfaction with the outcome, reflecting on the serious nature of the allegations and the court’s thorough examination of the evidence presented. They remarked, “What’s left is a significantly narrowed case, and we look forward to presenting our defence to the remaining claims in court.”
Lively is reportedly seeking damages exceeding £160 million, and the stakes remain high as both parties prepare for what is anticipated to be a pivotal trial in the entertainment industry.
As the legal process unfolds, observers will be closely following the developments of this high-profile case, which raises issues not only concerning personal reputations but also broader discussions around workplace safety and conduct within the film industry.