Both Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni
Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively Feud Intensifies Over ‘It Ends With Us’ Set Allegations
The dispute between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively continues to dominate headlines as both actors clash over allegations of misconduct on the set of It Ends With Us. The movie, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, is produced by Baldoni’s Wayfarer Studios, with Baldoni also directing and starring alongside Lively. The legal and public relations battle has grown increasingly contentious, with each side presenting its version of events.
On Tuesday, Baldoni’s legal team, led by Bryan Freedman, released behind-the-scenes footage from the filming of a bar scene to counter allegations made by Lively in her lawsuit. The footage shows the characters played by Baldoni and Lively slow dancing as their romance develops. While the video includes no audible dialogue by design, it has sparked debate over whether Baldoni’s behavior was professional or crossed boundaries.
The Allegations Against Baldoni
Lively’s lawsuit, filed in federal court in New York, accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment and claims he and his associates orchestrated a smear campaign against her. The actress alleges that during the filming of the slow-dance scene, Baldoni acted inappropriately by engaging in unscripted, non-consensual actions. According to the lawsuit, Baldoni “leaned forward and slowly dragged his lips from [Lively’s] ear down her neck” while commenting on her scent. When Lively objected, Baldoni allegedly dismissed her discomfort, stating, “I’m not even attracted to you.”
The lawsuit also highlights the lack of an intimacy coordinator on set, asserting that Baldoni improvised physical interactions without prior discussion or consent.
Footage Released by Baldoni’s Team
In an effort to refute these allegations, Baldoni’s legal team released nearly 10 minutes of raw footage from the scene, asserting it demonstrates “mutual respect and professionalism” between the actors. A title card accompanying the footage emphasizes that the interactions were consistent with the characters’ romantic arc and were intended to show their growing affection.
However, the footage is open to interpretation. While it depicts the characters dancing closely, Lively appears to pull back or turn her head away when Baldoni leans in to kiss her. She also suggests multiple times that dialogue might better convey the emotions of the scene. Critics have noted that the footage doesn’t show Lively explicitly objecting to Baldoni’s behavior or his alleged comment dismissing her concerns.
Lively’s Legal Team Responds
Lively’s attorneys responded to the footage by doubling down on the allegations. In a statement, they claim the video corroborates Lively’s description of events, showing Baldoni engaging in unscripted physical contact. They assert that Lively’s discomfort is evident in her body language and attempts to redirect the scene.
“Any woman who has been inappropriately touched in the workplace will recognize Ms. Lively’s discomfort,” her attorneys stated. “The video shows her leaning away and attempting to deflect unwanted touching through levity. No one should have to take defensive measures to avoid being touched by their employer without consent.”
They further criticized the decision to release the footage publicly, calling it a “media stunt” intended to manipulate public perception.
A Battle on Multiple Fronts
The legal feud has expanded beyond the set of It Ends With Us. Baldoni has countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, seeking $400 million in damages. He alleges they waged a smear campaign against him, including using the character “Nicepool” in the Deadpool & Wolverine movie to mock him. Baldoni’s team has also accused The New York Times of colluding with Lively’s PR team to publish an unverified narrative.
Freedman defended the decision to release the footage, arguing that Lively had already gone to the media to discredit Baldoni. “Ms. Lively wants very different standards to apply to her,” Freedman said. “Fortunately, truth and authenticity apply to everyone and can never be wrong.”
The Broader Implications
The ongoing feud highlights the complexities of workplace dynamics in Hollywood, particularly in projects where actors also hold positions of power. Lively’s legal team has emphasized the power imbalance between her and Baldoni, who was not only her co-star but also the director and producer of the film.
“This matter is in active litigation in federal court,” her attorneys said. “We are focused on the legal process and continuing efforts to hold Mr. Baldoni accountable under oath rather than through manufactured media stunts.”
As both sides prepare for their day in court, the case has already sparked intense public scrutiny, raising questions about boundaries, consent, and accountability in the entertainment industry. For now, the truth remains contested, with more evidence likely to surface as the legal battle unfolds.
