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One year after a high-profile legal fight involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni became public, attorneys on both sides are reflecting and outlining where the case stands today.
Attorneys Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, who represent Lively, 38, offered their view of the past year in a joint statement.
“One year ago, Blake Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department to advocate for a safe workplace following experiences she and others had while working on the film It Ends With Us,” the statement said.
According to Hudson and Gottlieb, Lively has remained steadfast despite what they describe as sustained efforts to undermine her credibility.
“Over the past year, Blake has persevered against a billionaire-financed attempt to bury her, her family and her businesses through retaliatory lawsuits and an aggressive media and digital campaign,” they said.
“With their lawsuits thrown out and her claims set for trial in May, Ms. Lively is more determined than ever to expose the systems that operate behind the scenes to silence and discredit women who speak up,” the attorneys said.
Speaking on behalf of Baldoni, 41, attorney Bryan Freedman issued a statement acknowledging the strain of the prolonged dispute while emphasizing gratitude and perspective.
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“My clients are deeply grateful for the support and kind words they’ve received over the past year,” Freedman said. “We trust that the truth will ultimately prevail, and the care that so many have shown has been a meaningful source of strength during an incredibly challenging time.”
“At the same time,” he continued, “we recognize that there are many other issues affecting the world that deserve even greater attention and compassion, particularly at this time of year. We hope the focus remains on supporting those who need it most and that we continue to look out for one another this holiday season.”
The legal conflict formally escalated in December 2024, when Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, her director and costar on It Ends With Us, along with several of his associates.
In her filing, Lively alleged sexual harassment and claimed she faced retaliation after raising concerns, and she’s now seeking $160 million in damages. Baldoni has denied all allegations and responded with a $400 million countersuit filed in January. That lawsuit was dismissed by Judge Lewis J. Liman in June.
