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Justin Baldoni scores a stunning victory in court today. Federal Judge Lewis Liman dismissed most of Blake Lively’s harassment claims in their high-stakes legal battle over the 2024 film “It Ends With Us.” The ruling gutted her headline case, keeping only limited claims alive for trial.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Ruling Date: April 2, 2026, issued by U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman in Manhattan
- Claims Dismissed: 10 of 13 claims thrown out, including sexual harassment, defamation, and conspiracy
- Surviving Claims: Only breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting charges remain
- Trial Status: May 18 trial date set pending the judge’s decision on remaining claims
Judge Tosses Lively’s Sexual Harassment Claims on Jurisdictional Grounds
Judge Lewis Liman ruled that Blake Lively could not pursue her sexual harassment claims under federal law. She sued as an independent contractor, but Liman said that protection doesn’t apply. Additionally, Lively tried using California law, yet filming occurred in New Jersey. The judge found jurisdictional barriers blocked her path. Defamation and conspiracy claims also fell away today.
This marks a devastating blow to the actress’s case. Lively’s original complaint accused Baldoni of making unwelcome comments about her appearance and weight. However, jurisdictional rules prevented the judge from hearing these allegations. The ruling effectively narrows the battlefield for the upcoming trial.
Justin Baldoni wins round as judge dismisses Blake Lively’s harassment claims
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What Claims Survive Against Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios
Lively can still pursue three remaining claims that could move forward to trial. A retaliation claim against Baldoni’s production company Wayfarer Studios survives the motion to dismiss. Additionally, breach of contract and aiding and abetting claims against various defendants remain viable. The May 18 trial will focus on these narrower issues. Lively alleged that Baldoni hired publicists to seed negative stories to retaliate against her speaking out.
Baldoni’s team argued Lively’s charges amounted to “minor grievances.” They claimed he had the right to defend himself publicly. According to reports, Baldoni contended he resolved her concerns immediately when raised on set.
The Case Timeline Since December 2024
| Date | Event |
| December 20, 2024 | Blake Lively sued Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios alleging harassment and smear campaign |
| January 22, 2026 | Baldoni’s legal team urged judge to dismiss Lively’s lawsuit entirely |
| February 2026 | Mediation session held, no settlement reached |
| April 2, 2026 | Judge Liman dismisses 10 of 13 claims against Baldoni |
“Liman dismissed Lively’s sexual harassment claims against Baldoni and other defendants on jurisdictional grounds, saying she had sued under a California law but the alleged wrongful conduct took place elsewhere.”
— Reuters, Legal Correspondent
How This Victory Affects the Film Industry and the May Trial
The “It Ends With Us” controversy has dominated Hollywood headlines for over a year. The $350 million box office success became overshadowed by the bitter conflict between its stars. Sony Pictures executive Tom Rothman called it “a fucking disaster” in an August email. The public rift damaged both stars’ reputations. Today’s ruling strengthens Baldoni’s position significantly.
High-profile figures including Taylor Swift, Ryan Reynolds, and Gigi Hadid were drawn into the case. Swift’s lawyers fought hard to keep her out. The tension between the camps has created one of entertainment’s messiest legal battles. A May 18 trial date remains set if the remaining claims don’t settle.
What Happens Next in This Hollywood Legal Battle?
With 10 of 13 claims dismissed, the trial scope has shrunk dramatically. Lively must now focus her case on retaliation, breach of contract, and aiding and abetting allegations. Baldoni’s countersuit against Lively was dismissed in June 2025. His legal victories continue mounting. Settlement talks in February failed, so a trial seems likely.
The May hearing will prove crucial. Only the remaining three claims need judicial review. Baldoni and his team maintain he did nothing wrong. The director insists he addressed all her concerns immediately. With momentum shifting, can Lively’s remaining claims survive jury scrutiny? Stay tuned for the May trial update.
Sources
- Reuters – Federal judge dismisses most of Blake Lively’s claims against Justin Baldoni on April 2, 2026
- Variety – Blake Lively’s sex harassment suit against Justin Baldoni gutted by judge’s ruling
- The New York Times – Blake Lively’s retaliation case heads to trial without harassment claims
