Blake Lively Drops Emotional Distress Claims Against Justin Baldoni Ahead of 2026 Trial

June 3, 2025: In a strategic move, actress Blake Lively has withdrawn two claims—intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress—against actor-director Justin Baldoni in their ongoing legal battle. The decision, filed on May 30, 2025, is part of preparations for their scheduled trial in March 2026.

Legal Strategy Sparks Dispute

Lively’s legal team stated that dropping these claims aims to streamline the case, allowing focus on core allegations such as sexual harassment and retaliation. However, Baldoni’s attorneys argue that the withdrawal is an attempt to avoid disclosing medical records related to Lively’s mental health. They have requested the court to dismiss the claims with prejudice, preventing them from being refiled. Lively’s lawyers counter that the dismissal was made in good faith and is a standard litigation practice.

Ongoing Legal Battle

The legal conflict began in December 2024 when Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation during the filming of “It Ends With Us.” Baldoni has denied the allegations and filed a $400 million countersuit in January 2025 against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist, accusing them of defamation and civil extortion.

Court’s Position

On June 3, 2025, Judge Lewis J. Liman confirmed the withdrawal of the emotional distress claims and denied Baldoni’s motion to compel the disclosure of Lively’s medical records. The court has left the decision of whether the claims are dismissed with or without prejudice to be determined by the parties involved.

Trial Scheduled for March 2026

Despite the dropped claims, Lively continues to pursue her remaining allegations, seeking emotional damages under claims of sexual harassment and retaliation. The trial is set to commence in March 2026, with both parties preparing for what is expected to be a high-profile courtroom showdown.