A federal judge in New York has dismissed sexual harassment claims brought by actress Blake Lively against actor and director Justin Baldoni, while allowing two retaliation claims to proceed to trial. The ruling, issued by Judge Lewis J. Liman, finds that although many allegations related to the film “It Ends With Us” were dismissed, Lively will still have the opportunity to present some aspects of her case to a jury.
### Judge’s Ruling and Context of Claims
In a comprehensive 152-page decision, Judge Liman ruled that Lively was an independent contractor during the filming of the movie, thus not qualifying under the legal definitions for sexual harassment claims set forth by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This law protects employees from workplace discrimination, including harassment, based on gender. The lawsuit was initially filed by Lively in December 2024, encompassing over a dozen claims against Baldoni and other parties involved in the production.
The court’s analysis detailed behaviors Lively alleged occurred during filming, including instances where Baldoni supposedly acted inappropriately, like leaning in suggestively and making intimate gestures. While the court acknowledged that such actions could be deemed inappropriate in other work environments, it concluded that the conduct in question was part of improvisation in a scripted scene and did not, in isolation, constitute harassment.
Baldoni’s lawyers expressed satisfaction with the ruling, emphasizing that the court’s decision underscored the importance of creative freedom for artists during performance.
### Remaining Claims and the Jury Trial
Despite the dismissal of the sexual harassment claims, the court has allowed two retaliation claims to advance. One claim is against It Ends With Us Movie LLC and Baldoni’s production company, Wayfarer Studios. The other relates to an alleged breach of a contract rider agreement against It Ends With Us Movie LLC. These claims will enable the jury to consider several allegations against Baldoni, including instances where he is reported to have made inappropriate comments and suggestions during filming.
The judge’s ruling highlighted a specific incident where Baldoni reportedly commented on Lively’s attire in a manner deemed unprofessional by others on set. Baldoni is alleged to have reacted dismissively when warned about his comments.
### Background on the Dispute
Lively’s allegations come in the wake of broader concerns surrounding workplace conduct in the entertainment industry, an area that has seen increased scrutiny in recent years. The actress’s attorney, Sigrid McCawley, reiterated the case’s focus on retaliation, arguing that it seeks to expose the harmful impacts of such retaliatory practices on individuals who advocate for safety and professionalism on set.
McCawley noted that for Lively, a key aspect of seeking justice is revealing those whom she believes have engaged in coordination to undermine her reputation online and elsewhere. Following the court’s decision, she expressed confidence in the upcoming trial, asserting it as an opportunity to further illuminate these critical issues.
### The Film and Its Implications
“It Ends With Us,” which debuted in August 2024, is an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel that begins as a romance and explores darker themes of domestic violence. Despite the controversies surrounding the production, the film has performed well at the box office, grossing over $50 million in its opening weekend.
The narrative surrounding the film’s production has brought attention not only to issues faced by the artists involved but also to the larger conversation about accountability and professional conduct in the entertainment industry.
Both Lively and Baldoni are notable figures in Hollywood, with careers that include successful television and film roles. Lively is known for her work in “Gossip Girl” and “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” while Baldoni gained fame for his role in “Jane the Virgin” and has turned to directing and writing.
As the trial date approaches, scheduled for May 18, both parties are preparing to present their cases before a jury. The outcome could provide insights into how similar allegations are handled in the future, particularly in the context of creative professions.
Source: Original Reporting
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