
Amid an ongoing legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, a newly released video has emerged, contradicting allegations of sexual harassment on the set of their film 'It Ends with Us.'
- Jan 22, 2025
AceShowbiz - In a shocking twist, video footage from the set of "It Ends With Us" has surfaced, shedding new light on the heated legal feud between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. The video reveals key interactions that challenge allegations of sexual harassment and a hostile work environment.
Lively, 37, filed a complaint in December 2024, alleging that her co-star and director, Baldoni, 40, sexually harassed her during the filming of a romantic dance scene.
Lively claimed that Baldoni leaned forward and "slowly dragged his lips from her ear and down her neck as he said, 'it smells so good.' " She further alleged that Baldoni's actions were unsolicited and unprofessional, creating a "hostile work environment."
However, a newly released, unedited clip contradicts Lively's claims and paints a different picture of their on-set interactions. Provided by Baldoni's production company, Wayfarer Studios, and his attorney, Bryan Freedman, the footage includes audio and shows a candid, friendly dynamic between the two actors.
Baldoni jokes, "Am I getting beard on you?" to which Lively responds, "I'm probably getting spray tan on you." The conversation remains light-hearted as Baldoni comments, "It smells good," and Lively clarifies it's her body makeup.
This new footage is pivotal in Baldoni's defense against Lively's claims. It also captures multiple takes of the scene, with both actors discussing choreography, lighting, and humorous banter about their spouses.
Baldoni's legal team argues that the video discredits Lively's allegations and highlights a professional rapport during filming. As they danced closely for the romantic scene, he quipped, "I'm feeling so nosey. It's just noses. And my nose is so big," to which she responded, "Yes, I was hoping we could address this. It's not too late."
Lively initially filed a complaint with California Civil Rights Department. In response, Baldoni launched a $250 million lawsuit against The New York Times, who published her story, accusing the outlet of libel by sharing "cherry-picked" information.
Lively later formally sued Baldoni for severe emotional distress, mental pain and anguish, and lost wages over alleged smear campaign orchestrated by Baldoni. The actor reacted by filing his own $400 million lawsuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and her publicist, Leslie Sloane, claiming defamation and civil extortion.
Baldoni's lawyer, Bryan Freedman, emphasized his client's transparency, stating, "Justin has nothing to hide. This lawsuit is a legal action based on an overwhelming amount of untampered evidence detailing Blake Lively and her team's duplicitous attempt to destroy Justin Baldoni, his team and their respective companies…"
On the other hand, Lively's legal team branded Baldoni's lawsuit as "meritless" and "desperate," maintaining that their evidence corroborates her complaint.
As the drama unfolds, the explosive footage is bound to influence public opinion and potentially the final outcome of this high-stakes legal saga. With both sides steadfast in their narratives, fans and legal experts alike continue to scrutinize the evolving case, making it one of the most compelling Hollywood controversies in recent years.