CRIME & LAW

Judge Dismisses Lively Harassment Claims; Trial Continues

PUBLISHED Apr 3, 2026, 12:42 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 10

Center 100%

Sources: 10

Washington, US. A federal judge this week dismissed actress Blake Lively’s sexual-harassment claims against actor-director Justin Baldoni in litigation tied to their 2024 film It Ends With Us, finding the alleged conduct lacked the necessary connection to California and could not survive summary judgment. The ruling narrows the legal issues but leaves multimillion-dollar defamation and retaliation counts intact, with a New York trial set for May 18; on April 4 Lively posted on Instagram she will continue the suit and emphasized harms from online hostility.

By Faro B. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

It Ends With Us filmed in 2024 with Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni.
Lively filed suit in California alleging sexual harassment, defamation, and retaliation during production.
Judge Lewis Liman issued a lengthy written opinion dismissing the sexual-harassment claims (early April 2024).
Defamation and retaliation counts survived and were scheduled for trial in New York on May 18, 2024.
On April 4, 2024, Lively publicly affirmed via Instagram she will continue the legal fight.

News Intelligence

This case highlights the ongoing struggle for workplace safety in the entertainment industry. It's a reminder to stay vigilant about inappropriate behavior at work. If you're in a similar situation, document incidents and consult a legal professional.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 10
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The dismissal of the sexual-harassment claims narrowed legal exposure for Justin Baldoni, Wayfarer Studios, and associated defendants while allowing defamation and retaliation claims to proceed to trial.

Who Impacted

Blake Lively and individuals raising workplace safety concerns face narrowed statutory claims and continued public scrutiny, creating reputational and emotional consequences as litigation proceeds.