Judge Dismisses Justin Baldoni's Defamation Lawsuit Against Blake Lively

This Monday, June 9, a US judge completely dismissed Justin Baldoni's defamation lawsuit against Blake Lively, in which he sought $400 million. The decision marks a significant legal victory for the actress, who last week withdrew her claims of intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress against Baldoni as part of her legal strategy. Following the news, the Gossip Girl star expressed her gratitude to her supporters on social media and emphasized her commitment to defending "every woman's right."

Last January, the director and actor filed a defamation lawsuit and other charges in New York against the popular actress, her husband Ryan Reynolds, her publicists, and the US newspaper The New York Times. Previously, Lively had accused him of sexual harassment during the filming of Breaking the Circle.

Five months later, Judge Lewis Liman ruled in favor of the actress with a motion to dismiss the entire lawsuit, which sought $400 million. The complaint against The New York Times, which demanded another $250 million, was also not upheld.

The actress's lawyers have hailed the ruling as "a victory" for their client and the co-defendants. Following this legal setback, Baldoni will have to face the consequences, as Lively's attorneys plan to seek costs and damages against him and his production company. "As we said from day one, this $400 million lawsuit was a sham, and the court uncovered it. We look forward to claiming attorney fees, treble damages, and punitive damages against those who perpetrated this abusive litigation," they stated.

Hours after the court's decision was announced, Blake Lively also spoke out, releasing a statement on Instagram. "Like so many others, I have felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit, including the fabricated shame that tries to break us," she wrote. "Although the lawsuit against me was dismissed, there are still many who do not have the resources to defend themselves," she continued, while expressing her determination to "continue defending every woman's right to have a voice in protecting themselves, including their safety, integrity, dignity, and story."

In this regard, she emphasized that "protection exists" for women and highlighted some of the organizations she collaborates with, concluding by thanking those who supported her during these months when her reputation and public image have suffered significant damage.

While the actress's legal representatives have noted that Lively "feels vindicated," People magazine reported that she "cried with relief" upon hearing the New York court's ruling.

In any case, the legal battle continues, as Baldoni, in addition to facing the costs and potential damages of the process, is set to face the trial for the sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit filed by Lively in 2024, scheduled for March 9, 2026.