Justin Baldoni's defense issues upbeat message after judge dismisses most of Blake Lively's claims

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Actors Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively have been involved in a legal dispute for some time. Recently, new developments emerged as Baldoni and his legal team reacted positively after a judge dismissed most of Lively’s claims against him.

The court decision removed several allegations, including defamation and conspiracy. In total, 10 of the 13 claims filed by Lively were dismissed, all stemming from tensions related to behind-the-scenes issues during the 2024 film 'It Ends With Us'.

Justin Baldoni’s team celebrates court ruling

Baldoni has responded after a judge ruled on parts of Lively’s case, which significantly reduced the scope of the dispute. His legal team expressed satisfaction with the decision, noting that all allegations of misconduct of that nature, along with claims against several named individuals, were dismissed.

According to a statement from Alexandra Shapiro and Jonathan Bach of Shapiro Arato Bach, the ruling followed a careful review of the facts, legal arguments, and extensive evidence. They described the outcome as narrowing the case and said they are prepared to address the remaining issues in court.

“We’re very pleased the Court dismissed all s**ual harassment claims and every claim brought against the individual defendants: Justin Baldoni, Jamey Heath, Steve Sarowitz, Melissa Nathan, and Jennifer Abel,” Shapiro and Bach said.

“These were very serious allegations, and we are grateful to the Court for its careful review of the facts, law and voluminous evidence that was provided,” the statement concluded. “What’s left is a significantly narrowed case, and we look forward to presenting our defense to the remaining claims in court.”

Judge Lewis Liman issued the ruling that removed multiple claims against Baldoni. However, a breach of contract claim and a workplace-related retaliation claim connected to Wayfarer Studios will still proceed to trial.

Legal battle between Lively and Baldoni continues

Lively and Baldoni, co-stars of 'It Ends With Us,' have been involved in an ongoing legal dispute since late 2024. The situation escalated after Lively raised concerns about her experience during the film’s production and later filed a lawsuit, claiming damage to her reputation and career. Baldoni has consistently denied all allegations.

In response, Baldoni filed counterclaims against Lively and Ryan Reynolds, which Judge Lewis Liman dismissed in 2025. His legal team did not pursue amended versions of those claims.

Following a recent court ruling, Lively’s legal team noted that part of her case could not proceed because of how the court classified her role.

Several claims remain active, including those concerning contract issues and alleged retaliation. Both sides are preparing for the next stage of the case.

Lively first filed her lawsuit in December 2024, citing significant professional and financial losses related to the controversy over the film’s release. Baldoni continues to deny the allegations and is defending his position in court.