Blake Lively Accuses Justin Baldoni of Sexual Harassment Amid Film Production Fallout

Blake Lively has filed a legal complaint against her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and retaliatory actions intended to damage her reputation. The accusations have added tension to what was already a high-profile production based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel.

According to legal documents filed with the California Civil Rights Department, Ms Lively claims Mr Baldoni, alongside Wayfarer Studios’ CEO Jamey Heath, created a hostile work environment during the film’s production. The filing outlines allegations of “inappropriate and unwelcome behaviour,” including instances where both men reportedly made lewd comments and introduced additional explicit scenes outside the agreed script.

The dispute escalated during a meeting held on 4th January this year, attended by Ms Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, Mr Baldoni, and other key production members. The meeting aimed to address concerns raised by Ms Lively regarding repeated incidents of sexual harassment and other disturbing behaviour. Among her demands were the cessation of inappropriate comments and assurances that her professional boundaries would be respected.

Ms Lively also alleges that Mr Baldoni made unsettling remarks about communicating with her late father, further straining their professional relationship. In response to these complaints, Mr Baldoni’s legal team has categorically denied the allegations, branding them as “intentionally salacious” and aimed at undermining his reputation.

A lawyer representing Mr Baldoni has accused Ms Lively of making unreasonable demands during production, including threats to boycott filming and promotional events unless her conditions were met. They argue that her claims were designed to harm the film’s success and tarnish Wayfarer Studios’ reputation.

Despite the controversy, It Ends With Us achieved box office success after its August release, though critics voiced concerns about its depiction of domestic violence. The film, which explores the complex relationships of florist Lily Bloom, played by Ms Lively, also stars Brandon Sklenar as her compassionate first love, Atlas Corrigan.

The tension between Ms Lively and Mr Baldoni became public when rumours of a rift circulated on social media. These were further fuelled when the two failed to appear together at promotional events.

In a statement to the BBC, Ms Lively explained her decision to pursue legal action, saying:

“I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who may be targeted.”

Blake Lively’s legal complaint highlights ongoing challenges in addressing workplace misconduct, aligning with broader calls for accountability, as outlined by the Equality and Human Rights Commission on sexual harassment policies.

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