Blake Lively's Legal Battle: What’s Next After Court Dismisses Most Claims Against Justin Baldoni?

Blake Lively has responded to a federal court's decision to dismiss the majority of her allegations against Justin Baldoni, including harassment and defamation. In her statement, she criticized the portrayal of her situation as mere 'Celebrity Drama' and highlighted the serious implications of digital violence. Lively remains determined to advocate for safer workplace conditions and hopes her legal battle will empower other women to speak out. The court proceedings are set to continue, focusing on the remaining claims against Baldoni. Discover more about the details of this unfolding legal drama.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 7, 2026, 08:43 IST

Blake Lively's Response to Court Ruling

Blake Lively has officially reacted to the recent ruling by federal judge Lewis J. Liman, who dismissed 10 out of the 13 allegations she made against her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni. Lively accused Baldoni of harassment and defamation, with additional claims including breach of contract and retaliation, which are set to be heard in court on May 18. Following the court's decision, Lively took to Instagram to express her appreciation for the chance to share her side of the story.

Blake Lively's Statement on Digital Violence

Blake Lively responds to court's dismissal of allegations against Justin Baldoni

In her statement, Lively criticized the online discourse surrounding her situation with Baldoni, labeling it as ‘Celebrity Drama’. She described this framing as irresponsible, emphasizing, “The physical impact of digital violence is very real. It constitutes abuse.” Lively hopes her legal actions will empower other women to speak out against harassment and advocate for better workplace conditions, asserting, “My allegations won't be the first or last instances highlighting the severe risks of retaliation and digital warfare.”

She pointed out that while ‘digital manipulation has been touted as untraceable’, efforts to expose the ‘systems, tactics, and individuals who inflict harm’ are already underway. Lively vowed to continue her fight for safer work environments, even after the trial concludes, stating, “I recognize it’s a privilege to be able to stand up. I will not squander it.”

Details Behind the Dismissal of Claims

What led to the dismissal of Blake Lively's claims?

On April 2, Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed Lively's harassment and defamation allegations, citing that under California law, they were not applicable since the filming of It Ends With Us, where the alleged incidents occurred, took place in New Jersey. Reports suggest that the judge informed Lively that she could not pursue claims of harassment and retaliation due to her status as an independent contractor rather than an employee.

According to a BBC report, the judge deemed Lively’s defamation claim against Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, insufficient for trial. However, Liman found her allegations accusing Baldoni of orchestrating a ‘coordinated campaign’ to damage her character and reputation to be substantial enough to proceed to trial.