Blake Lively has withdrawn her claims of emotional distress against Justin Baldoni in their ongoing legal battle. Baldoni’s team alleges she is avoiding sharing her medical records, while Lively’s lawyers call it a publicity stunt. The dispute stems from their work on the film It Ends With Us.
Lively’s legal team filed a request to drop two claims—intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress. This came after Baldoni’s lawyers demanded access to her medical and therapy records to counter her allegations of severe emotional harm.
“Once again this is a routine part of the litigation process that is being used as a press stunt,” Lively’s lawyers Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb said. “We are streamlining our case for trial; they are seeking tabloid coverage.”
Baldoni’s legal team argues Lively is trying to “have it both ways”—withdrawing claims but keeping the option to refile later. They want the dismissal to be “with prejudice,” meaning she cannot bring the same claims again.
The court must now decide whether Lively must hand over her medical records or if the claims can be dropped without further conditions. The case continues with other accusations, including sexual harassment and defamation.
Background of the Legal Feud
Lively sued Baldoni in December 2024, accusing him of sexual harassment and a smear campaign during the making of It Ends With Us. She claimed his actions caused her “severe emotional distress, humiliation, and mental anguish.”
Baldoni denied all allegations and countersued for $400 million, accusing Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and extortion. He alleges they tried to control the film’s narrative and damage his reputation.
The dispute has drawn in other high-profile names, including Taylor Swift, whom Baldoni subpoenaed before withdrawing the request. Lively’s legal team called the move an “unwarranted fishing expedition.”
Medical Records at the Center of the Fight
Baldoni’s lawyers insist Lively must release her medical records since she claimed emotional distress. They argue she “waived doctor-patient privilege” by making her mental health part of the lawsuit.
“Ms. Lively cannot refuse to disclose medical records while keeping the right to refile these claims later,” Baldoni’s attorney Kevin Fritz wrote in court filings.
Lively’s team counters that the records are irrelevant now that the emotional distress claims are being dropped. They accuse Baldoni’s side of misleading the court and public for media attention.
What Happens Next?
The judge will rule on whether Lively must comply with the medical records request or if the claims can be dismissed without conditions. Meanwhile, other parts of the lawsuit, including sexual harassment and defamation claims, remain active.
Lively’s legal team says she still alleges emotional distress as part of her broader claims. Baldoni’s side maintains her withdrawal of the specific claims is an attempt to avoid scrutiny.
The case has become a high-profile clash, with both sides accusing the other of using the legal system for publicity. The outcome could set a precedent for how emotional distress claims are handled in similar disputes.
Public Reactions and Media Coverage
The legal battle has sparked intense media coverage, with outlets split on interpretations. Some suggest Lively is protecting her privacy, while others argue Baldoni’s team is exposing legal tactics.
“The way this case is playing out in public shows how messy Hollywood legal fights can get,” an entertainment analyst noted. “Both sides are using the press as much as the courtroom.”
Fans have also taken sides, with social media debates over whether Lively is avoiding accountability or being unfairly targeted.
Key Takeaways
Lively dropped two emotional distress claims but faces demands to release medical records.
Baldoni’s team calls it an evasion tactic; Lively’s lawyers say it’s routine legal strategy.
The judge must decide if records must be disclosed or if claims can be dismissed freely.
The broader lawsuit, including sexual harassment and defamation claims, continues.
The case highlights how celebrity legal battles often play out in both court and media.
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