Federal court documents unsealed in Blake Lively’s harassment lawsuit against Justin Baldoni expose thousands of pages of texts, depositions, and filings, intensifying a dispute that originated on the set of the 2024 film It Ends With Us. Lively’s attorney described the materials as damning, heightening anticipation for a key hearing today.
Tensions During Filming
Conflicts arose during production of It Ends With Us, where Baldoni served as director and Lively as lead actor. In December 2024, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, accusing Baldoni of harassment and retaliation. She is pursuing a $500 million settlement. Baldoni responded with a $400 million countersuit, which a judge dismissed in June 2025.
Depositions from female crew members detail harsh working conditions and a tense atmosphere. They corroborate Lively’s accounts of seeking support amid challenges. These testimonies underscore the production’s difficulties and will factor heavily in the legal proceedings.
Network Support Revealed
Unsealed texts show Lively drawing on her personal and professional circle for backing. She confided in Taylor Swift about Baldoni’s conduct, with Swift replying in December 2024, “You won. You did it.” Correspondence also involves Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, and other cast members, illustrating her efforts to manage set issues.
The documents name a Sony Pictures executive and list Wayfarer Studios—co-founded by Baldoni—as a defendant. Sony, the film’s distributor, faces new examination over its role.
Industry Ripples
The case has prompted widespread reassessment of on-set safety in entertainment. Hollywood figures are reviewing protocols, including the use of intimacy coordinators and non-disclosure agreements. Colleen Hoover, author of the novel adapted into the film, has addressed the dispute, noting the movie remains available for viewing despite the controversy.
Baldoni recently lost representation from William Morris Endeavor, signaling professional fallout. Lively, meanwhile, has drawn public sympathy. The revelations have fueled global media coverage and social media discussions on accountability.
Legislative Momentum
California lawmakers are eyeing workplace reforms inspired by the lawsuit, such as mandatory coordinators and stronger retaliation protections. SAG-AFTRA is engaging in talks on harassment and set safety. The case revives broader debates on power dynamics, allyship, and the #BelieveWomen movement.
Global audiences are tracking developments, with petitions urging transparency. Distributors worldwide monitor Baldoni’s projects, including It Ends With Us, which stays accessible in most markets.
As a May 2026 trial looms and today’s summary judgment hearing unfolds, settlement talks remain possible. New evidence could emerge, but the resolution carries weight for handling harassment claims industrywide, potentially driving reforms in safety standards and career safeguards.
Sources:
“Jenny Slate Slams Justin Baldoni as a ‘Clown’ in Shocking Unsealed Text Messages from ‘It Ends With Us’ Set.” People Magazine, 20 Jan 2026.
“Blake Lively Reveals ‘Gross’ Details Of ‘It Ends With Us’ Production In Newly Unsealed Docs.” Deadline, 20 Jan 2026.
“Judge dismisses Justin Baldoni’s $400m countersuit against Blake Lively.” BBC News, 9 Jun 2025.