Blake Lively set aside her ongoing legal troubles to enjoy Easter Sunday with her family, sharing a festive moment on social media. The 38-year-old actress posted to Instagram Stories, revealing she had prepared bunny-shaped scrambled eggs for her children. This heartwarming display came just days after a significant development in her legal case against It Ends with Us collaborator Justin Baldoni, 42, where a judge dismissed several of her claims.
Legal Proceedings Narrow as Trial Approaches
On Thursday, Manhattan U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman dismissed all but three of the 13 original claims in Lively's lawsuit against Baldoni. Among the dismissed allegations were conspiracy and defamation claims. The case, which centers around the romantic drama film, continues with three claims still active: retaliation, aiding and abetting in retaliation, and breach of contract. A tentative trial date has been set for May 18.
Focus on Retaliation Claims
Sigrid McCawley, an attorney representing Lively, emphasized that the core of the case remains the alleged retaliation. "This case has always been and will remain focused on the devastating retaliation and the extraordinary steps the defendants took to destroy Blake Lively’s reputation," McCawley stated. She added that Lively was targeted "because she stood up for safety on the set and that is the case that is going to trial."
McCawley clarified that the sexual harassment claims were dismissed not because the defendants did nothing wrong, but because the court determined Lively was an independent contractor, not an employee. She noted, "For Blake Lively, the greatest measure of justice is that the people and the playbook behind these coordinated digital attacks have been exposed and are already being held accountable by other women they’ve targeted."
Lively's Personal Statement and Resolve
In a social media statement on Friday, Lively expressed gratitude for the court's ruling, which allows the heart of her case to proceed. "I am grateful for the court's ruling which allows the heart of my case to be presented to a jury next month," she said. Lively highlighted her motivation, stating she brought the lawsuit due to pervasive retaliation for advocating a safe working environment.
"The last thing I wanted in my life was a lawsuit, but I brought this case because of the pervasive RETALIATION I faced, and continued to, for privately and professionally asking for a safe working environment for myself and others," Lively explained. She emphasized her commitment to shining a light on these issues, hoping to pave the way for others.
Defense Response and Case Background
Baldoni's attorneys, Alexandra Shapiro and Jonathan Bach, responded to the court's decision, expressing satisfaction. "We are very pleased the court dismissed all sexual harassment claims and every claim brought against the individual defendants," they said. They described the remaining case as significantly narrowed and look forward to presenting their defense.
The legal battle began in December 2024 when Lively filed a lawsuit accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment, retaliatory conduct, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Her allegations included body shaming and orchestrating a smear campaign. Baldoni had previously filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, her spouse Ryan Reynolds, and others, which was dismissed in June.
Impact on It Ends with Us and Careers
The film It Ends with Us, based on Colleen Hoover's 2016 novel, was a commercial success, earning $148 million domestically and $350 million globally. However, the allegations have overshadowed its success. The storyline, which involves a toxic relationship between characters played by Lively and Baldoni, has drawn parallels to the real-life dispute.
Lively, known for roles in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and Gossip Girl, has built a diverse career in film and television. Baldoni gained recognition for his role in Jane the Virgin and has directed films like Five Feet Apart. Both parties have denied all allegations against them.
As the trial date approaches, Lively remains focused on her family and legal fight, stating, "I know it’s a privilege to be able to stand up. I will not waste it. Your support keeps me going." The case continues to unfold, with both sides preparing for the upcoming court proceedings.
