Justin Baldoni’s legal team is preparing a lawsuit that his attorney claims will reveal the truth behind Blake Lively’s allegations of harassment and retaliation on the set of It Ends with Us. The escalating legal battle between the two actors, both prominent figures in Hollywood, has drawn widespread attention due to the serious accusations and implications for the entertainment industry.
Bryan Freedman, Baldoni’s attorney and a well-known Hollywood litigator, released a statement defending his client and criticizing Lively’s allegations as part of a “false and destructive narrative.” Freedman emphasized that Baldoni’s forthcoming legal filing is not a countersuit but a strategic effort to uncover the truth and expose what he described as systemic abuse of power.
“This is not a response or countersuit—it’s a deliberate pursuit of truth,” Freedman stated. “There is an insurmountable collection of authentic evidence, including timelines and communications, which have not been doctored or spliced without context, unlike the altered narrative in recent reports.”
Allegations and Counterclaims
Blake Lively filed her complaint on December 20, 2024, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and retaliation. Her 80-page legal filing detailed allegations of inappropriate behavior, including unwanted kissing, discussions about her intimate life, and pressuring her into scenes involving simulated nudity. Lively also alleged that Baldoni orchestrated a smear campaign to discredit her after she reported his behavior.
In response, Freedman criticized Lively’s allegations, focusing on what he described as manipulated text messages and a broader pattern of unethical media practices. He claimed that the case would shine a light on how media platforms are sometimes weaponized to distort the truth.
“This lawsuit will confront a system that has long exploited its platform to destroy lives without accountability,” Freedman said. “The truth will dismantle the illusions propped up by those who believe themselves untouchable.”
The Role of Media and Public Relations
Freedman’s statement took aim at a December 21, 2024, New York Times article that broke the news of Lively’s complaint, alleging that the publication relied on “nefarious sources” without thoroughly verifying their claims. He also alluded to evidence that would disprove Lively’s allegations, including purported communications between Baldoni and other parties involved in the case.
The controversy extends beyond the legal filings, implicating members of both actors’ PR teams. According to reports, Baldoni’s impending lawsuit will allege that Lively’s publicist, Leslie Sloane, orchestrated a campaign to tarnish his reputation. Sloane has denied these claims, calling them “false” and asserting that her team did not originate any media stories about allegations of misconduct on set.
“It’s clear that Mr. Baldoni and his associates are suggesting I originated press stories, which is false,” Sloane stated. She pointed to a relative of Baldoni’s PR team member as the source of leaked information to the press.
A Pattern in Hollywood?
Freedman’s remarks hinted at broader issues within Hollywood, suggesting that Lively’s complaint is part of a recurring pattern in which reputations are destroyed to maintain power dynamics. He criticized the entertainment industry and media for creating an environment where careers are built and dismantled based on selective narratives.
“In over three decades of legal practice, I’ve never witnessed such unethical behavior, fueled by those who abuse their power and manipulate the truth,” Freedman said. “This case is not just about one individual; it’s about holding an entire system accountable.”
Lively’s Perspective
In her initial statement to the New York Times, Lively expressed hope that her legal action would protect others who might face similar retaliation. “I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct,” she said.
Her allegations also include incidents involving Baldoni discussing his personal history of pornography addiction and alleged non-consensual encounters, as well as reportedly degrading remarks about her body and age.
Next Steps
As Baldoni prepares to file his lawsuit in early January, the case is expected to attract further attention, particularly for its potential to expose behind-the-scenes power dynamics in Hollywood. Both parties have denied the allegations against them, creating a highly contentious and public legal battle.
For more updates on this developing legal dispute, stay tuned to Vviptimes.
To get our latest news/breaking news as instant notification in your device, please allow VvipTimes to send you notification. If you prefer less noise, you can simply follow us on Twitter(X).
