Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Settle 'It Ends With Us' Lawsuit

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have settled their legal dispute over the 2024 film 'It Ends With Us,' averting a trial scheduled for May 18 in New York. The settlement was announced on Monday by attorneys for both actors, who issued a joint statement expressing pride in the film and a shared commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence. The statement acknowledged challenges and recognized that concerns raised by Lively deserved to be heard, while emphasizing a goal of workplaces free of impropriety. The lawsuit, filed by Lively in December 2024, accused Baldoni of sexual harassment, misconduct, and a smear campaign on set. Baldoni denied the allegations and countersued, but his lawsuit was dismissed by a judge in June. A judge had previously thrown out 10 of 13 claims in Lively's case, leaving breach of contract, retaliation, and aiding and abetting retaliation. The legal battle revealed private communications among Hollywood figures, including texts with Taylor Swift. Lively's lawyer, Sigrid McCawley, stated that the case exposed a 'smear machine' in Hollywood. The settlement brings closure to a high-profile dispute that had captivated the entertainment industry.