Blake Lively’s sexual assault lawsuit against Justin Baldoni dismissed by judge
A judge has dismissed most of Blake Lively’s sexual assault claims against Justin Baldoni. It refiled the case before it could go to trial, but key allegations still remain.
Actor Blake Lively’s legal fight against him it ends with us The case of co-star and director Justin Baldoni has taken a significant turn after a judge dismissed most of his sexual assault claims. The ruling, handed down by Judge Lewis Lyman, limits the scope of the high-profile lawsuit just weeks before it was scheduled to go to trial.
10 of the 13 claims filed by Blake Lively have been dismissed, including major allegations of sexual harassment, defamation and conspiracy against Justin Baldoni. The case will now proceed with only three claims: breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting retaliation.
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Why were sexual harassment claims rejected?
The court ruled that Lively could not bring a federal sexual harassment claim because she was working as an independent contractor during the production of the film. Additionally, the California law – cited in her complaint – was deemed inapplicable, as filming took place in New Jersey.
Lively alleged that Hollywood/story/blake-lively-voice-message-justin-baldoni-it-ends-with-us-court-proceedings-challenges-returning-to-work-legal-battle-2860106-2026-01-30″ target=”_blank”>Baldoni made inappropriate comments about her appearance and weight on set. However, The judge found that the legal framework required to support those claims was not met in the circumstances presented.
Which claims are still pending hearing?
Despite the setback, parts of the lawsuit remain intact. The court has allowed claims related to retaliation to proceed, including allegations that Baldoni and his associates conducted a campaign to damage Lively’s reputation.
Lively’s legal team has argued that the lawsuit will now focus on alleged attempts to defame her after she raised concerns about workplace safety. These claims, along with breach of contract, are expected to be heard by a jury in an upcoming hearing.
What did both sides say?
Lawyers representing Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios welcomed the decision, saying the dismissal significantly narrows the scope of the case. He said the remaining claims are limited and expressed confidence in defending them in court.
Meanwhile, Lively’s team insists the case is not yet over what they describe as coordinated retaliation and online smear efforts.
Controversy stems from 2024 film it ends with uswhich grossed US$350 million globally, but was hit by reports of tension between its leads. After a failed attempt at mediation in February, the case will now be heard in May.