Blake Lively has made a surprising move in her ongoing legal fight with Justin Baldoni. The actress dropped two key claims from her lawsuit against the It Ends With Us director. She withdrew allegations of intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress after Baldoni’s legal team requested access to her medical records.
The court filing on June 2, 2025, revealed Lively’s decision to remove these claims. Baldoni’s lawyers argued she was trying to avoid sharing her medical history while keeping the option to refile later. They called this unfair and asked the court to either dismiss the claims permanently or force Lively to provide the records.
“Ms. Lively cannot have it both ways,” Baldoni’s attorney Kevin Fritz wrote in the filing. Lively’s legal team dismissed this as a “press stunt,” saying they were simply focusing their case. They added that new legal developments made some claims unnecessary but stressed that emotional distress remains part of other allegations.
Background of the Legal Feud
The dispute began in December 2024 when Lively accused Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath of sexual harassment on the set of It Ends With Us. She also claimed they launched a smear campaign against her after she spoke out. Baldoni denied all allegations and countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, for $400 million, accusing them of defamation and extortion.
Baldoni’s lawsuit claims Lively used false harassment claims to gain control over the film. He alleges she rewrote scenes, excluded him from promotions, and even got Reynolds involved in production conflicts. Lively’s side argues this is a classic case of DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender), a tactic often used by abusers to shift blame.
What Happens Next?
The court must now decide whether Lively must hand over her medical records or if the emotional distress claims can be dismissed for good. Meanwhile, Lively’s lawsuit still includes accusations of sexual harassment, retaliation, and lost wages. Baldoni’s defamation case against her and Reynolds continues as well.
The legal battle has already had real-world consequences. Baldoni was dropped by his talent agency WME, and a women’s rights group rescinded an award they had given him. Lively, too, faced backlash during the film’s promotion for not addressing its domestic violence themes strongly enough.
Key Points of the Legal Fight
Lively’s Withdrawal: She dropped emotional distress claims but keeps other allegations.
Baldoni’s Demand: His team wants her medical records or a permanent dismissal.
Bigger Lawsuit: Baldoni is suing Lively and Reynolds for $400 million.
Harassment Claims: Lively says Baldoni created a hostile work environment.
Smear Campaign: Both sides accuse the other of damaging their reputations.
The case is set for trial in March 2026, with Judge Lewis Liman overseeing it. Until then, both sides continue to clash in and out of court.
Reactions from Both Sides
“This is a routine part of litigation. We are streamlining our case for trial.” – Lively’s legal team
“Lively’s withdrawal is an attempt to hide medical evidence. She can’t avoid scrutiny.” – Baldoni’s lawyers
The outcome could impact how Hollywood handles similar disputes in the future.
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