Blake Lively has made shocking accusations against Justin Baldoni, her director and co-star from the romance film It Ends With Us, accusing him of sexual harassment on set and orchestrations of a smear campaign against her following their confrontations. The legal complaint, which she filed on Friday with the California Civil Rights Department, outlines serious claims about Baldoni's behavior and the negative impact it had on her career.
The complaint alleges Baldoni, who also co-starred and directed It Ends With Us, exhibited unwanted and inappropriate conduct during filming. Lively describes instances of harassment, including repeated sexual comments and actions, leading to her and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, addressing the troubling behavior with Baldoni and producers involved. Lively's accusations paint a picture of retaliation once she attempted to speak out.
“The effects on Ms. Lively’s professional life were immediate and substantial,” the complaint stated, referring to how the negative public sentiment stemming from Baldoni's alleged actions forced her to withdraw from many professional commitments. One notable event was her cancellation of guest hosting the season opener of Saturday Night Live for its 50th anniversary, which was instead hosted by Jean Smart on September 28, 2024.
Lively also withdrew from hosting duties for Target's corporate event related to her hair care business due to concerns about press scrutiny related to the bullying atmosphere created by Baldoni. "Given the nature of the campaign and the associated negative public sentiment, Ms. Lively did not believe she could proceed with public appearances or events without being forced to openly discuss what happened on set,” her complaint reads.
Aside from the serious accusations, the complaint alleges Baldoni deployed publicists and crisis management to launch what it describes as a “multi-tiered plan” aimed at damaging Lively's reputation. This plan allegedly included planting misleading stories online, conducting social media campaigns, and creating narrative-building pieces meant to eliminate any negative sentiments surrounding Baldoni.
“To safeguard against the risk of Ms. Lively ever disclosing the truth about Mr. Baldoni, the Baldoni-Wayfarer team created, planted, amplified, and boosted content targeting Ms. Lively’s credibility,” the complaint states. This alleged campaign began after Lively and Reynolds confronted Baldoni and producers about his behavior, making it clear they expected changes moving forward. It also reflects the lengths to which Baldoni reportedly went to protect his image amid allegations of misconduct.
When approached for comment, Baldoni's legal representation dismissed Lively's accusations as "completely false, outrageous and intentionally salacious.” Lawyer Bryan Freedman stated, “It is shameful... to make such serious and categorically false accusations against Mr. Baldoni,” implying the claims were desperate attempts by Lively to rehabilitate her reputation rather than factual recounts of events.
The fallout from Lively's accusations has been swift. Following the filing of her lawsuit, reports emerged indicating Baldoni has been dropped by his agency, WME, which also happens to represent Lively. This demonstrates the serious professional ramifications faced by Baldoni with the increasing attention to the matter.
Lively's assertions have also garnered notable support, including from It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover, who praised Lively publicly. On social media, Hoover emphasized Lively's character, stating, “You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive and patient since the day we met.” Such endorsements reinforce public perception about Lively's integrity and the negative consequences she has faced amid this troubling situation.
Her sister, Robyn Lively, has been vocal on social media backing her sister, calling the circumstances surrounding the harassment claims unjust and harmful. “FINALLY justice for my sister,” she proclaimed on Instagram, contributing to the wave of familial and professional support Lively is receiving.
This case has sparked broader conversations surrounding workplace misconduct and the treatment of women within the entertainment industry. Lively, who feels compelled to bring this issue to light, stated, “I hope my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct.”
With the release of It Ends With Us on August 11 accumulating considerable box office success, the looming allegations of harassment and the surrounding controversies have left their mark on the film's promotion. Despite the film's early successes, the narrative surrounding its lead actors now shifts heavily toward the serious claims made by Lively.
Admitted instances of harassment and retaliation are not merely topics of controversy; they reinforce the importance of creating safe work environments. The solutions must include listening to victim's voices, empowering them to speak freely, and ensuring accountability among those who misuse their power.
