Blake Lively Withdraws Claims Against Justin Baldoni Amid Ongoing Legal Battle

After a tumultuous year of legal disputes stemming from their collaboration on "It Ends With Us," Blake Lively has moved to withdraw two claims against director Justin Baldoni, including intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress. This decision comes amid ongoing tensions and counterclaims between both parties.

Blake Lively, who starred alongside director Justin Baldoni in the film "It Ends With Us," has sought to withdraw two claims she previously filed against him. The legal conflict has unfolded since Lively initiated a lawsuit in December 2024, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign following the film's release.

Baldoni's legal representatives requested that Lively provide her medical records, including therapy notes, as part of their defense against her assertions of "severe emotional distress and pain, humiliation, embarrassment," according to Variety. As part of the latest developments, Lively has attempted to retract her claims concerning intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress. The court is expected to determine whether to dismiss these claims or compel Lively to provide information regarding her mental health.

In documents disclosed by Baldoni's legal team, they noted the withdrawal of Lively's infliction of emotional distress claims and criticized her for not agreeing to a settlement that would prevent these claims from being refiled in the future. Lively's attorneys responded, labeling Baldoni's filing as a "press stunt" and insisting that their strategy was focused on refining their case. They stressed that Lively continues to assert emotional distress among various other allegations, which include claims of sexual harassment and retaliation.

The legal drama intensified in January when Baldoni countersued Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, over accusations of civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy. Since the film's premiere, Lively and Baldoni's disputes have garnered significant public interest, particularly due to the film's sensitive subject matter.

In a surprising twist, singer Taylor Swift was summoned to testify last month regarding her alleged involvement in script revisions, although her representatives asserted she had no role in any casting or creative direction. Swift’s subpoena was subsequently lifted after her legal team challenged its validity, labeling it as an "unwarranted fishing expedition."

As the situation continues to evolve, all eyes remain on the courtroom as Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's legal battle significantly impacts their respective careers.