Blake Lively Files Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni Over Allegations of Misconduct on 'It Ends With Us' Set
Actress Blake Lively has filed a lawsuit against director and actor Justin Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and creating a toxic work environment during the filming of It Ends With Us. This comes after months of speculation about escalating tensions on set.
Allegations Detailed in the Lawsuit
The investigation, which surfaced months after the movie's release, outlines troubling behavior by Baldoni, which allegedly pushed Lively to hold an extensive meeting during filming.
According to the complaint obtained by Page Six, Lively, 37, asked Baldoni, 40, to stop showing provocative images and videos of her, refrain from discussing his "past addiction to pornography," and avoid making inappropriate comments about the cast and crew's genitalia.
She also accused him of mentioning her weight, bringing up her late father, and attempting to add unauthorized intimate scenes to the script.
Lively's Stand Against Toxic Behavior
The legal action taken by Lively aims to shed light on what she described as "Hollywood's malicious retaliatory tactics."
Speaking to The New York Times, Lively said, "I hope my legal action helps put an end to these harmful tactics used to hurt those who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who might be targeted."
Escalating Tensions Behind the Scenes
Months before the investigation began, Baldoni reportedly noticed rising tensions. Text messages obtained by Page Six revealed that Baldoni expressed concern after Lively's husband, Ryan Reynolds, blocked him on Instagram.
The messages also showed Baldoni asking his publicist to prepare a plan in case Lively took formal action.
While Lively did not formally warn Baldoni, she unfollowed him on Instagram, and neither Reynolds nor Baldoni follow each other on the platform, fueling further speculation about strained relationships behind the scenes.
Denial from Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios
In response to the allegations, Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, have denied all accusations. Attorney Bryan Freedman released a statement calling the claims "categorically false" and "deliberately salacious."
Freedman also alleged that Lively made repeated demands during filming and threatened to withdraw from the project and promotional activities unless her concerns were addressed.
Industry Reactions and Fallout
Insiders claim Lively was not the only cast member uncomfortable working with Baldoni. A source told Page Six, "None of the cast enjoyed working with Justin," pointing to the lack of interaction between Lively and Baldoni at the film's premiere in New York City.
In a related development, WME Talent Agency has reportedly dropped Justin Baldoni following the allegations made by Blake Lively.
Finally
As Hollywood continues to grapple with on-set misconduct, the outcome of this case could mark another significant moment in the push for accountability and safer professional environments.
