2023: The Early Stages
Casting Announcement: In early 2023, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni were announced as the leads in the New York Times best-seller film adaptation of “It Ends With Us.”
Filming Begins: Filming starts later in 2023, but the public is unaware of a growing tension between the stars. The two actors are reported to have had a professional working relationship during this time. Although whispers suggest disagreements existed behind the scenes.
August 2024: Tension Comes to Light
Baldoni Hires Crisis Management Team: As the “It Ends With Us” premiere approaches, Baldoni reportedly hires a crisis management team. Which signaled that the disagreements may not be subtle and that something more may be happening behind the scenes.
Premiere of It Ends With Us: The premiere brought tension across the board, with Lively and Baldoni not interacting. Baldoni is notably banished to the basement at the event and is not allowed to be with the rest of the cast. This raised eyebrows and sparked speculation among fans and media about what happened between the costars.
December 2024: Allegations and Lawsuits Begin
Lively Files Sexual Harassment Complaint: On December 20, 2024, Blake Lively filed a sexual harassment complaint with the California Civil Rights Department. The complaint alleges inappropriate behavior and misconduct by Baldoini during the filming of “It Ends With Us.”
Lively Files Lawsuit: Just days after her formal complaint, Lively files a lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, his publicist, Wayfarer Studies, and others. Which claimed they retaliated against her for reporting sexual harassment in the workplace. Lively’s lawsuit suggested a toxic and hostile work environment, further escalating the public feud.
Baldoni Files Libel Lawsuit: On December 21, 2024, Baldoni counters Lively by filing a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times for publishing a report on Lively’s allegations. In his suit, Baldoni claims that Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, arranged a “smear campaign” against him. Also, accusing the couple of making false and defamatory claims about him to the media.
January 2025: Legal Battle Intensifies
Baldoni Sues Lively and Reynolds: On January 16, 2025, Baldoni escalated the legal drama by filing a $400 million lawsuit against Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds. This amended complaint includes accusations of malicious defamation. Seeking to hold them accountable for their alleged role in the public smear campaign against him.
February 2025: Public Defense and Legal Tensions
Baldoni Publishes Website: On February 1, 2025, Baldoni launched a public website. It featured a timeline of events and a detailed version of his amended complaint. The website offers his side of the story, attempting to present a defense and clear his name amid the growing media frenzy.
Judge’s Warning: By February 3, 2025, the legal battle continues to make headlines. A judge overseeing the case threatens to move up the trial date if either party continues to litigate the case in the press. The judge expressed concerns that the constant media coverage may taint the jury pool and jeopardize a fair trial.
What’s Next?
With both sides deep in legal battles, the drama between Baldoni and Lively is far from over. The lawsuit, public statements, and media coverage will continue to unfold. Many are still wondering how this high-profile case will be resolved.
The ongoing saga has raised questions about workplace conduct, the responsibilities of public figures, and the impact of social media on legal disputes. This ensures that this drama will remain a topic of discussion for months to come.
