The high-stakes legal battle between actress Blake Lively and director Justin Baldoni has intensified as the new year begins, with fresh court documents revealing startling private messages. The dispute, centered on the film adaptation of 'It Ends With Us', involves a multi-million dollar lawsuit and serious allegations from both sides.
Explosive Allegations: 'Setting Up a Trap' on Set
Newly obtained court documents, reported by TMZ, show private texts from Justin Baldoni to his then-agent, Danny Greenberg, in late December 2023. In these messages, Baldoni describes a "really, really bad week" working with his leading lady, Blake Lively. The director expressed significant discomfort, alleging that Lively invited him to a meeting at her house alone, a situation he found inappropriate.
Baldoni's core accusation is that Lively refused to use a body double for intimate scenes, a decision he perceived as deliberately risky. "That’s just setting me up for a trap," Baldoni wrote. He further claimed the actress insisted a body double be used for him instead, flipping the standard protocol. The texts suggest Sony executives and producer Todd Black were drawn into the escalating conflict.
Clashing Visions and a 'Hostile' Environment
The revelations extend to creative disagreements. Baldoni alleged that Lively rejected his storyboards for key romantic scenes and pushed for both actors to remain "fully clothed" during a pivotal intimate moment. He called this demand "ridiculous" for anyone familiar with the source material.
These messages were sent just days before a crucial "all-hands" meeting on January 4, 2024. That meeting included Lively's husband, Ryan Reynolds, and studio representatives. Lively reportedly presented a list of conditions and protections required to resume production after the industry strikes, signaling a profound breakdown in trust.
However, Lively's legal team presents a different timeline. They contend Baldoni sent these texts only after Lively had detailed instances where he and his business partner, Jamey Heath, allegedly created a "hostile work environment." The team notes that Baldoni had previously agreed to over a dozen safety protocols for the cast and crew.
A $160 Million Legal Showdown Looms
This exchange forms the backdrop of a massive lawsuit filed by Blake Lively in December 2024. She is suing Justin Baldoni and several associates for sexual harassment and retaliation, seeking a staggering $160 million in damages. Baldoni has categorically denied all allegations against him.
The legal saga is now heading towards a courtroom confrontation. The case is scheduled to be heard in court on January 22, setting the stage for a potentially landmark proceeding in Hollywood. The outcome could have significant ramifications for on-set protocols and the dynamics between actors and directors in the industry.
