Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's Legal Battle Over 'It Ends With Us' Set for March 2026 Trial

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Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are embroiled in a legal battle that has garnered significant media attention. The dispute centers around allegations of sexual harassment, defamation, and extortion related to their film "It Ends With Us." The movie, an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s 2016 novel, was released in August 2024 and became a surprise hit at the box office, debuting with $50 million.

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Lively filed a lawsuit in late December 2024, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and attacks on her reputation. She is seeking unspecified damages. In response, Baldoni filed a lawsuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, in early January 2025, alleging defamation and extortion and seeking at least $400 million in damages.

The legal proceedings have been marked by intense public relations campaigns from both sides. Lively's lawyers have accused Baldoni's attorney, Bryan Freedman, of engaging in an extrajudicial campaign to influence jury perception and public opinion by releasing selected documents and communications. They have called for a protective order to limit the disclosure of discovery materials and to remind Freedman of his obligations under the rules of professional conduct.

In a separate filing in Hays County, Texas, Lively has requested a deposition from Jed Wallace, a crisis management specialist she alleges was instrumental in manipulating social media to turn public sentiment against her during the film's release and promotion. Wallace and his firm, Street Relations, were reportedly subcontracted by publicists working with Baldoni and his production company.

The New York federal judge, Lewis J. Liman, has set an initial hearing for February 3, 2025, and a trial date of March 9, 2026. The judge plans to consolidate the separate lawsuits for trial. The proceedings are expected to address the claims and counterclaims of both parties, including the potential impact of public relations strategies on jury impartiality.