The drama began when Lively filed an 80-page civil rights complaint with the California Civil Rights Department on December 20, 2024, followed by a federal lawsuit on December 31, accusing Baldoni of sexually harassing her in multiple ways—including body shaming—and orchestrating a smear campaign to damage her reputation. Baldoni and his company, Wayfarer Studios, fired back with a $400 million countersuit in January 2025, alleging defamation and extortion by Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and publicist Leslie Sloane. Baldoni also filed a $250 million defamation suit against The New York Times over a December 2024 article detailing Lively’s claims. However, Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed Baldoni’s countersuit, ruling that Lively’s allegations were protected by legal privilege and that Baldoni failed to prove defamation, as he did not show that Lively, Reynolds, Sloane, or The New York Times doubted the truth of their statements.
Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, described Lively’s public appearances, including her attendance at the 18th Annual Tribeca Artists Dinner on June 9, as a “false victory tour.” Speaking to TMZ Live on June 10, 2025, Freedman admitted disappointment over the defamation claim dismissal but emphasized that the case focuses on proving Lively’s sexual harassment and smear campaign allegations are false. He pointed to evidence, including video footage from the It Ends With Us set, which he claims contradicts Lively’s account of a dance scene where she alleged harassment. Freedman noted that Lively’s deposition is scheduled for June 2025, and Baldoni’s team can amend contract-related claims by June 23, signaling the legal battle is ongoing. An insider revealed Baldoni is “struggling” but remains confident in his legal strategy.
While Lively’s legal win is a milestone, the battle continues. Her $250 million lawsuit against Baldoni for sexual harassment and retaliation remains active, and she must substantiate her claims. Baldoni’s team is expected to appeal the dismissal and amend their complaint, with potential costs of $100 million looming due to California’s legal protections for harassment claims. The It Ends With Us drama, centered on a hit film that grossed $350 million globally, has captivated Hollywood, with stars like Julia Fox voicing support for Lively. Will Lively’s victory hold, or will Baldoni’s evidence shift the narrative? Stay tuned for the next chapter in this high-stakes saga
