In a legal dispute unfolding in New York, a representative for Blake Lively argued before a federal judge to ensure specific rules are set to prevent the release of intimate and personal information about her and other public figures. This comes as the lawsuit Lively filed against her co-star, Justin Baldoni, proceeds toward a trial.
The attorney, Meryl Governski, emphasized to Judge Lewis J. Liman during a telephone conference that particular materials should be kept strictly between lawyers for the protection of her client and others involved. The judge has yet to make a decision on the matter.
In late December, Lively initiated legal action against Baldoni, asserting claims of sexual harassment and damage to her reputation. She is seeking unspecified damages. In response, Baldoni countersued, accusing Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and extortion, and seeking damages totaling at least $400 million.
Governski criticized the defendants, including Baldoni and his production company, for allegedly operating on an unrestricted budget to damage Lively’s and her family’s lives. “There is an insatiable appetite for any information about this case, no matter how benign it is,” Governski stated, mentioning that the defendants have allegedly boasted about the ability to release information discreetly.
Particularly sensitive information, such as medical and mental health data, along with “personal and intimate conversations with unrelated third parties,” needs protection to prevent irreparable harm, Governski argued. These details hold little evidentiary value but could potentially cause significant damage.
Bryan Freedman, representing Baldoni, countered Governski’s claims, suggesting that the judge’s existing orders on confidentiality provide adequate protection. Freedman insists that the celebrity status of those involved should not alter the proceedings of the case.
He agreed that should a need for extra confidentiality arise, specific requests could be made to shield sensitive materials like those related to Lively’s emotional distress claims.
The judge remarked on the public’s right to court access and transparency, and while he refrained from an immediate decision, he highlighted the importance of maintaining fairness, cautioning lawyers about statements that might prejudice the case. He also left open the possibility of advancing the trial date if inflammatory comments persist.
The legal battle coincides with the release of “It Ends With Us,” an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel dealing with themes of domestic violence. The film, launched in August, was commercially successful but shadowed by rumors of discord between the leading actors.
Blake Lively gained recognition through “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” in 2005 and rose to fame with the TV series “Gossip Girl.” Her filmography includes roles in “The Town” and “The Shallows.” Justin Baldoni is known for starring in “Jane the Virgin” and for directing “Five Feet Apart” while also authoring a book challenging traditional masculinity titled “Man Enough.”
