In a dramatic turn in Hollywood’s latest courtroom drama, a judge has dismissed Justin Baldoni’s massive $400 million countersuit against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, their publicist Leslie Sloane, and The New York Times.
The ruling, handed down June 9 by Judge Lewis J. Liman, also threw out Baldoni’s separate $250 million defamation lawsuit against the Times. The lawsuits continue from the ongoing fallout surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation related to the 2024 film I't Ends With Us,' directed by and starring Baldoni, alongside Lively.
Judge Liman’s ruling highlighted that the statements made by Lively in her initial complaint were privileged and that Baldoni’s team failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove that Reynolds, Sloane, or The New York Times acted with reckless disregard for the truth, which is a necessary element to establish defamation.
“The Wayfarer Parties have not alleged that Lively is responsible for any statements other than those in her CRD complaint, which are privileged,” the judge wrote. “Additional claims fail, and the amended complaint must be dismissed in its entirety.”
The lawsuit battle ignited last December when Blake Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment on the set of 'It Ends With Us' and alleged a retaliatory campaign against her. Baldoni has denied the allegations, countersuing Lively, Reynolds, and Sloane for defamation and extortion.
Lively’s attorneys called the dismissal a “total victory and a complete vindication,” emphasizing that Baldoni’s countersuit was “a sham” designed to retaliate against those who spoke out.
“We look forward to seeking attorneys’ fees, treble damages, and punitive damages against those who perpetrated this abusive litigation,” Lively’s legal team stated.
Leslie Sloane’s attorney echoed this sentiment, affirming her client was wrongfully dragged into the suit and fully vindicated by the court’s decision.
The legal battle is not over:
While this ruling is a major setback for Baldoni, the legal battle is far from over. The court has allowed Baldoni’s team to amend certain claims, and both parties are expected to testify when the trial begins in March 2026.
The drama has also seen twists outside the courtroom, including a retraction by journalist James Vituscka, who walked back statements that were central to Baldoni’s case.
Actors and crew members have also shared their statements and perspectives as the legal battle continues.