December 26, 2024
Actress Blake Lively has initiated legal action against her "It Ends With Us" co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and the orchestration of a smear campaign aimed at damaging her reputation. The lawsuit, filed in California Civil Court, details claims of inappropriate behavior and retaliatory tactics during the film's production.
Allegations of Sexual Harassment
Lively's complaint outlines several instances of misconduct by Baldoni, including:
- Displaying explicit content to Lively without consent.
- Engaging in discussions about sexual conquests in her presence.
- Making unsolicited comments about her weight and deceased father.
These actions, according to Lively, led to severe emotional distress.
Smear Campaign Allegations
Following a meeting where Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, addressed these concerns, the lawsuit alleges that Baldoni and the production company, Wayfarer Studios, initiated a "multi-tiered plan" to undermine Lively's public image. This strategy reportedly involved:
- Engaging public relations professionals to disseminate negative stories about Lively.
- Utilizing social media to portray her as "controlling" and "difficult."
The complaint includes alleged communications between publicists discussing tactics to "bury" Lively's reputation.
Industry Reactions and Legal Developments
The allegations have prompted significant reactions within the entertainment industry:
- Actress Jenny Slate has publicly supported Lively, expressing concern over the reported misconduct.
- Author Colleen Hoover, whose novel "It Ends With Us" inspired the film, has also voiced her support for Lively.
The Vital Voices Global Partnership rescinded a women's solidarity award previously given to Baldoni following the accusations.
In a related development, Baldoni's former publicist, Stephanie Jones, has filed a lawsuit against him and his production company, alleging breach of contract and involvement in the alleged smear campaign against Lively.
Baldoni's Response
Baldoni's legal team has denied all allegations, describing them as "false and malicious." They assert that the hiring of a crisis manager was a preventive measure against Lively's alleged threats during production.
Conclusion
The legal proceedings are ongoing, with both parties preparing for a protracted legal battle. The case has sparked widespread discussions about workplace conduct and the responsibilities of industry professionals in maintaining a respectful and safe environment.