Justin Baldoni's legal team has pushed back against Blake Lively's assertions of 'financial and reputational damage' resulting from an alleged smear campaign. In a pre-trial hearing on Tuesday, Baldoni's attorneys argued that Lively's own business ventures, including her drinks brand, failed due to her unpopularity rather than any coordinated attack.
Failure of Blake Lively's Brand
Attorney Amir Kaltgrad told the court that Lively's company 'did not succeed for nothing to do with the defendants,' referencing her accountant Jeffrey Kinrich's notes. Court documents show Lively's side acknowledged 'management had doubts about the profitability and sustainability of Betty Buzz for reasons unrelated to the online manipulation.' Both parties are preparing for a civil trial scheduled for May 18.
Justin Baldoni Claims Blake Lively Is 'Unlikeable'
Baldoni's legal team also highlighted Lively's past public conduct, particularly her criticism of Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, prior to the 2024 film release. Lively mocked Kate's digitally altered family photo in March 2024, later apologizing when the Princess disclosed her cancer diagnosis.
Justin Baldoni Challenges Blake Lively's Multi-Million Dollar Claims
Baldoni's lawyers disputed Lively's financial loss estimates, which include $143 million in lost profits, $132 million in lost earnings, and additional endorsement losses. Kaltgrad called the figures a 'pie in the sky,' noting Lively earned about $21 million from four films in the eight years before 'It Ends With Us.' Her expert witness estimated $142 million in potential earnings over five years post-release, which Kaltgrad criticized as based on 'unrealistic assumptions.'
Blake Lively to Take the Stand
Lively's attorney Sigrid McCawley stated outside court, 'Blake's hope is to be able to have her voice heard in that courtroom.' She added Lively is ready for the trial and 'feeling really good' about finally telling her side. Earlier this month, Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed 10 of Lively's 13 claims, leaving breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting retaliation to proceed.
