The courtroom drama surrounding It Ends With Us has taken a headline-worthy turn — and Blake Lively is walking away with a major victory.
On Monday, a U.S. District Court judge in Manhattan officially dismissed Justin Baldoni’s jaw-dropping $400 million counter-suit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and The New York Times. The lawsuit, which has been swirling through entertainment and legal circles since November 2024, was filed in response to Lively’s own claims of sexual harassment and retaliation during the film’s production.
Judge Lewis J. Liman ruled that Baldoni’s legal team failed to provide evidence that Lively committed "wrongful extortion" during contract negotiations or that she (or The Times) defamed him. In fact, the only statements cited came from Lively’s civil rights complaint — which are protected by legal privilege.
That means the more explosive parts of the suit — including defamation and extortion — are out for good. Reynolds and The Times are completely off the hook. However, the judge did allow Baldoni’s side the option to amend and refile limited claims (namely, tortious interference and breach of implied covenant) by June 23. Still, the legal momentum is clearly with Lively.
Her team didn’t mince words. "Today’s opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively" a statement read, calling Baldoni’s lawsuit a "sham" and promising to seek treble damages, attorneys’ fees, and more in the next phase.
As for Lively’s original lawsuit — which names Baldoni and fellow Wayfarer Studios co-founder Jamey Heath — it remains very much active and is headed to trial in March 2026.
One thing’s for certain: the film may be wrapped, but the behind-the-scenes drama is far from over.
