Blake Lively’s legal team has responded strongly after Justin Baldoni’s attorneys released footage addressing their behind-the-scenes conflict on It Ends with Us.
On January 21, Baldoni’s attorney Bryan Freedman shared a video with TMZ to dispute Lively’s December 20 harassment claims. The video shows Baldoni, 40, and Lively, 37, filming a non-dialogue scene for the 2024 hit film. In the footage, the two actors joke out of character about Baldoni’s nose and Lively’s spray tan.
In her December 20 lawsuit, Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and alleged a retaliatory smear campaign against her. She claimed Baldoni’s “disturbing” and “unprofessional” behavior created a hostile work environment, causing her “grief, fear, trauma, and extreme anxiety.”
One allegation claimed Baldoni leaned in during a slow dance scene, dragging his lips down her neck and saying, “It smells so good.” Lively’s complaint stated Baldoni later dismissed her objections, saying, “I’m not even attracted to you.”
In response, Baldoni filed a defamation lawsuit against The New York Times on December 31, accusing the outlet of libel and false light invasion of privacy for its article covering Lively’s claims. On January 16, Baldoni also filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist, alleging defamation and extortion.
Baldoni’s latest lawsuit claims that during filming a “romance montage,” Lively suggested he undergo plastic surgery to fix his nose. The released footage captures them joking about his nose, including Lively’s remark referencing cosmetic surgery.
Lively’s legal team issued a statement calling the video release “damning” evidence against Baldoni. The statement highlights Baldoni’s actions in the footage, including repeated attempts to kiss Lively, rubbing his face against her neck, and caressing her without prior discussion or consent. The lack of an intimacy coordinator during these interactions was emphasized.
“Justin Baldoni and his lawyer may hope this stunt undermines the evidence against him, but the video reveals his inappropriate behavior,” the statement said.
The legal team argued the footage demonstrates Lively’s discomfort as she leans away, repeatedly asking for dialogue between the characters. They suggested her jokes were attempts to deflect unwanted touching and stated no woman should have to employ defensive measures against workplace harassment.
The statement criticized Baldoni’s decision to release the footage to the media, labeling it an unethical attempt to manipulate public perception. Lively’s team vowed to focus on the legal process to ensure Baldoni and his associates are held accountable in court rather than relying on media tactics.
On January 21, Baldoni’s attorneys announced plans to launch a website containing all relevant correspondence and videos to counter Lively’s claims. This development adds another layer to the ongoing legal battle between the two actors.