Lively vows to fight after Baldoni sexual harassment claims dismissed
What's the story
Hollywood actor-producer Blake Lively has vowed to continue her fight against the systems and people who seek to "harm, shame, and retaliate against victims." This comes after a judge dismissed 10 of her 13 claims against It Ends With Us director Justin Baldoni on Thursday, April 2. The court rejected allegations including sexual harassment, defamation, and conspiracy, as per Page Six. However, her allegations related to a retaliatory smear campaign will still proceed to trial.
Legal proceedings
'I'll never stop doing my part in fighting...'
Lively took to her Instagram Stories on Saturday to share a statement. She wrote, "I will never stop doing my part in fighting to expose the systems and people who seek to harm, shame, silence, and retaliate against victims." The Gossip Girl actor also expressed gratitude for the court's ruling that allows her case to be presented to a jury next month.
Statement
'I hope the court's decision shows others that...'
Lively further wrote, "The last thing I wanted in my life was a lawsuit, but I brought this case because of the pervasive RETALIATION I faced, and continue to, for privately and professionally asking for a safe working environment for myself and others." "I hope the Court's decision shows others that, as unfathomably painful as it is, you can speak up."
Upcoming trial
Lively's legal battle against Baldoni will continue
Lively's case against Baldoni's company, Wayfarer Studios, will go to trial on May 18. A narrower set of claims, including breach of contract and retaliation, will be heard at trial. "I know it's a privilege to be able to stand up. I will not waste it," Lively said, adding a dragon emoji. The emoji possibly references texts cited in Baldoni's 2025 countersuit, where she compared herself to Game of Thrones's Khaleesi and called Ryan Reynolds and Taylor Swift her "dragons."
Background
Timeline of Lively's legal battle with Baldoni
Lively first filed a sexual harassment complaint against Baldoni in December 2024, alleging misconduct on the set of It Ends With Us and a retaliatory smear campaign. In January 2025, Baldoni filed a countersuit against Lively, accusing her of extortion and defamation. However, this lawsuit was dismissed in June 2025 when his legal team chose not to refile amended versions of the claims.