Blake Lively has filed a bombshell lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and fostering a toxic work environment during the production of their film It Ends With Us.
The allegations include Baldoni entering her trailer while she was nude, allowing his friends to watch her film intimate scenes, and making inappropriate remarks and changes to the script without her consent.
Accusations of Misconduct on Set
According to the lawsuit, a January 2024 meeting was held to address complaints about Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios CEO Jamey Heath. During the meeting, it was allegedly agreed that Baldoni and Heath would stop entering Lively’s trailer unannounced while she was nude or vulnerable. Additionally, the lawsuit claims Baldoni improvised physical intimacy during scenes, including biting and sucking on Lively’s lip without prior discussion.
Lively also alleges Baldoni made intrusive comments about her personal life, such as asking inappropriate questions about her relationship with her husband, Ryan Reynolds. She further claims he inserted gratuitous sexual content into the film, including scenes involving nudity, which were not part of the original novel by Colleen Hoover.
Retaliation and Smear Campaign Allegations
The lawsuit accuses Baldoni’s crisis management team of orchestrating a smear campaign against Lively after she raised concerns. Subpoenaed messages reportedly show the team discussing ways to discredit her, including spreading rumors about her behavior on set. The messages also suggest Baldoni planned to capitalize on negative press about Lively to shift the narrative in his favor.
Lively claims Baldoni’s behavior and retaliatory tactics created a hostile work environment, forcing her to bring in her own editor during post-production to align the film with her vision.
Baldoni’s Response
Through his lawyer, Baldoni has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “categorically false” and accusing Lively of attempting to deflect criticism of her own actions during the film’s campaign. Wayfarer Studios also stated they implemented changes, including hiring an intimacy coordinator, to ensure a safe environment on set.
Lively, however, remains firm in her claims, stating her legal action aims to expose retaliatory tactics and protect others who may face similar misconduct in the industry.
This lawsuit sheds light on alleged behind-the-scenes turmoil of It Ends With Us, turning the spotlight from the film to the real-life drama surrounding its production.
