Judge Dismisses Baldoni’s Suits, Case Continues

A federal judge has dismissed Justin Baldoni's $400 million defamation countersuit against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and others, as well as his $250 million libel suit against The New York Times, stemming from disputes on the set of 'It Ends With Us.' The court found Lively's statements were protected by litigation privilege, and Baldoni's team failed to establish defamation or actual malice by the Times. Although the judge barred refiling of certain defamation and extortion claims, Baldoni may amend and refile other claims by June 23. Lively and her legal team hailed the ruling as a 'total victory' and plan to seek attorneys’ fees and punitive damages, while Baldoni's attorney has vowed to continue legal action. Legal experts caution that the broader case continues, as Lively's sexual harassment and retaliation claims against Baldoni remain active and depositions are expected soon. Both parties remain publicly committed to their positions as the high-profile dispute unfolds.