Co-Star's Private Messages Expose Alleged Turmoil on It Ends With Us Set
Newly unsealed court documents have revealed explosive private text messages from actress Jenny Slate, who described the production of the romantic drama It Ends With Us as "really gross and disturbing." The messages form part of an extensive legal battle between star Blake Lively and director Justin Baldoni, with Slate's candid communications shedding stark light on the alleged atmosphere during filming.
Damning Testimony in Multi-Million Dollar Lawsuit
The documents, made public on Tuesday 20 January, include transcripts of depositions and private text exchanges involving numerous figures connected to the 2024 film adaptation. Alongside Slate's testimony, the records feature communications from Lively, novelist Colleen Hoover, and even pop superstar Taylor Swift, revealing a web of discontent surrounding the production.
In one particularly damning text sent on 4 June 2023, Slate didn't mince words about her experience working with Baldoni. "I honestly have never ever encountered anything like this dude," she wrote. "He's the biggest clown and the most intense narcissist. Lots of lessons learned!" Her criticism extended to what she perceived as Baldoni's public persona, stating he was "truly a false ally" and "unwilling to do anything that promotes the image that he's crafting as a 'male feminist.'"
Allegations of Inappropriate Behaviour and Studio Complaints
Slate, who portrayed the sister of Baldoni's character in the film, went further in her deposition, alleging the entire shoot was "a really gross and disturbing shoot, and I'm one of many who feel [this] way." She claimed that both she and Lively had "complained directly" to studio giant Sony about their concerns during production.
The actress recounted specific incidents that contributed to her discomfort, including an allegation that Baldoni made inappropriate comments about her appearance. According to Slate's testimony, the director told her she "look[ed] sexy" in her costume—a remark she described as "not appropriate" in "any workplace." These allegations form part of Lively's broader lawsuit, which includes claims of sexual harassment and a coordinated campaign to damage her reputation.
Behind-the-Scenes Tensions Revealed in Private Exchanges
The unsealed documents paint a picture of mounting tensions throughout the production and promotional phases. In messages to her former agent in May 2023, Slate described the atmosphere as "fascinating and also so s***ty," adding that Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath were "truly unfit." She expressed particular concern for Lively's experience, noting "I know Blake is experiencing that on a much more serious level."
By June 2023, Slate's dissatisfaction had grown to the point where she explicitly told her representatives she did not want to appear alongside Baldoni or Heath during the film's promotional tour. Meanwhile, text conversations between Lively and Taylor Swift revealed the star referring to Baldoni as a "doofus" and "clown," while asking Swift to review a revised version of the script.
Legal Battle Heads Toward Crucial Phase
Lively's lawsuit seeks approximately $500 million in damages, with the case scheduled for trial in May if no settlement is reached next month. The actress alleges Baldoni orchestrated an online smear campaign against her in retaliation for her complaints about sexual harassment. Baldoni has consistently denied all allegations, though a countersuit he launched was dismissed last year.
The revelations from Slate's private communications add significant weight to Lively's claims, providing what appears to be corroborating testimony from a fellow cast member. As the legal proceedings continue, these unsealed documents offer the public an unprecedented glimpse into the alleged behind-the-scenes turmoil of a major Hollywood production, raising serious questions about workplace conduct in the film industry.
