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Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni's Set Feud Explodes in New Lawsuit

PUBLISHED Aug 21, 2026, 1:15 PM ET

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Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have settled their legal dispute over the film "It Ends With Us," averting a trial that was scheduled to begin on May 18, 2026 . The settlement, announced on May 4, involved no financial payout between the parties . However, the legal battle is not entirely over, as a key issue remains pending before the court . Lively continues to pursue a motion for attorneys' fees and damages related to Baldoni's previously dismissed $400 million defamation countersuit . The countersuit, filed in January 2025, was thrown out by Judge Lewis Liman in June 2025, who ruled that Lively's statements were part of protected legal filings . Most of Lively's original sexual harassment claims against Baldoni were also dismissed in April 2026, leaving only retaliation claims for trial . Both parties have claimed victory, with Baldoni's lawyer stating the settlement was a "total victory" .

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On August 9, 2024: "It Ends With Us" premiered, sparking rumors of cast tensions.
· On December 20, 2024: Lively filed a sexual harassment complaint against Baldoni.
· On January 16, 2025: Baldoni countersued Lively and Reynolds for defamation.
· On June 2025: Judge Liman dismissed Baldoni's $400 million defamation lawsuit.
· On September 2025: Lively renewed her motion for fees under a California law.
· On April 2026: Judge dismissed 10 of Lively's 13 claims, including harassment.
· On May 4, 2026: Both parties reached a settlement with no financial payout.
· On May 7, 2026: Lively's team filed to pursue legal fees and damages.
· On June 12, 2026: Judge awarded Lively legal fees but rejected punitive damages.
· On future dates: Both parties will move on from the public legal battle.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Settling a high-profile Hollywood workplace misconduct case avoids a costly trial.
Possible long-term US impact: The case may influence legal strategies in harassment and defamation claims.
Most affected groups: Hollywood actors, production companies, and entertainment industry legal professionals.
Reader priority: Verify claims through court documents and official statements, not social media.