Blake Lively ‘Devastated’ after Legal Loss to Justin Baldoni, Refuses to Back Down
Last Updated on April 3, 2026 by Bella
Hollywood star Blake Lively is reportedly “devastated” after suffering a major legal setback in her ongoing battle with Justin Baldoni.
A federal judge dismissed 10 of Lively’s 13 claims, including high-profile allegations such as sexual harassment, significantly narrowing the scope of the case.
Despite the ruling, insiders say Lively is far from giving up.
Blake Lively vs Justin Baldoni
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Film Release | 2024 | It Ends With Us releases and becomes a global hit, later overshadowed by controversy. |
| Lawsuit Filed | 2024 | Blake Lively files multiple claims against Justin Baldoni, including sexual harassment and defamation. |
| Emotional Distress Claims Dropped | June 2025 | Lively withdraws two emotional distress claims from the lawsuit. |
| Baldoni Defamation Case Dismissed | 2025 | Baldoni’s $400 million defamation lawsuit against Lively and Ryan Reynolds is dismissed. |
| Mediation Attempt Fails | Early 2026 | Both parties attempt mediation but fail to reach a resolution. |
| Major Court Ruling | April 2026 | Judge Lewis Liman dismisses 10 of 13 claims, including sexual harassment, conspiracy, and defamation. |
| Remaining Claims | April 2026 | Only three claims proceed: breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding retaliation. |
| Trial Scheduled | May 2026 | Case heads to trial in New York, with Lively expected to testify. |
What the Court Decided
Judge Lewis Liman ruled to dismiss the majority of claims tied to Lively’s lawsuit against Baldoni, her co-star and director in It Ends With Us.
The dismissed claims include:
- Sexual harassment
- Conspiracy
- Defamation
Only three claims will now proceed to trial:
- Breach of contract
- Retaliation
- Aiding and abetting retaliation
The case is scheduled to go to trial in New York this May, following unsuccessful mediation efforts.
Why the Claims Were Dismissed
The court’s decision was based largely on legal technicalities, not necessarily the merits of the allegations.
One key factor was Lively’s classification as an independent contractor, rather than an employee, which impacted how certain claims could be legally pursued.
Her legal team emphasized this point, stating that the dismissal does not mean wrongdoing did not occur.
Emotional Reaction Behind the Scenes
Sources close to Lively revealed the emotional toll of the ruling.
“She’s devastated,” one insider said. “This is not the outcome she expected.”
Another source added:
“She’s angry… She feels like her story isn’t being fully heard.”
Despite the disappointment, those close to the actress insist she remains determined to continue the fight.
Blake Lively Is Not Backing Down
While Baldoni’s legal team has framed the ruling as a major victory, Lively’s side is preparing for the next phase.
“Blake is not quitting,” an insider shared. “She’s digging in.”
Her attorney, Sigrid McCawley, reinforced that the focus of the case moving forward will center on retaliation claims:
“This case has always been and will remain focused on the devastating retaliation and the extraordinary steps the defendants took to destroy Blake Lively’s reputation because she stood up for safety on the set and that is the case that is going to trial.”
A Legal Battle That Continues to Escalate
The legal dispute between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has been one of Hollywood’s most closely watched cases.
The controversy surrounding It Ends With Us has overshadowed its box office success, which exceeded $350 million globally.
The case has also brought attention to private communications involving high-profile celebrities like Taylor Swift and Ben Affleck.
Meanwhile, Baldoni previously faced his own legal setback when a $400 million defamation claim against Lively and Ryan Reynolds was dismissed.
What Happens Next
With the case now narrowed, all eyes are on the upcoming trial in May.
Lively is expected to testify, and the focus will shift to allegations of retaliation and reputational damage.
Industry observers say the outcome could have lasting implications for both parties.
While Blake Lively may have suffered a significant legal blow, the fight is far from over.
With trial looming and emotions running high, this high-profile case is entering its most critical phase yet.
TL;DR
- Blake Lively had 10 of 13 claims dismissed in her case against Justin Baldoni
- Sexual harassment and defamation claims were thrown out
- Only three claims will proceed to trial in May
- Lively is reportedly “devastated” but determined to continue
- The case now focuses on retaliation allegations
