Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni Attend Summary Judgment Hearing
The ongoing trial involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni regarding allegations of sexual harassment is now approaching a crucial phase. As the court-ordered settlement talks continue, a recent summary judgment hearing provided insights into the case’s future.
Summary Judgment Hearing Insights
Judge Lewis Liman presided over the hearing without a decision made. Both Lively and Baldoni were absent, but Baldoni’s lawyer, Jonathan Bach, argued that Lively was aware of the film’s nature when she took the role in *It Ends With Us*.
- Bach claimed Lively’s complaints were about “trivial things and petty slights.”
- Judge Liman challenged this perspective, suggesting that small issues can compound into significant matters.
Arguments Presented in Court
Lively’s attorney, Esra Hudson, emphasized that the nature of the workplace does not absolve the defendants of responsibility. The hearing lasted four hours and took place at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse in New York City.
The case began after Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department in December 2024. It centers around accusations of misconduct during the filming of the movie and subsequent digital attacks against Lively.
Claims of Digital Smear Campaign
One focal point in the hearing was the allegation of a digital smear campaign against Lively. The attorney representing Lively, Matthew Bruno, asserted that communication between Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios executives utilized Signal to manipulate social media against Lively.
- The discussions included allegations of a joint effort to discredit Lively.
- Bruno highlighted the loss of significant evidence due to auto-deleting features in Signal chats.
Notable Evidence and Mentions
Lively’s team presented various documents, including texts and depositions from notable personalities like Taylor Swift and Hugh Jackman. Swift was quoted negatively addressing Baldoni, while actress Jenny Slate described him as a “narcissist.”
Following the hearing, Lively’s lawyer, Sigrid McCawley, expressed confidence in their case and her client’s desire to stand up for women facing workplace harassment.
Next Steps in the Legal Battle
Looking ahead, the next settlement hearing is scheduled for February 11, 2026, with both Lively and Baldoni expected to attend. The trial is currently set for May 18, 2026, but potential changes could arise prior to this date.
The outcome of this case may set significant precedents regarding workplace harassment and the responsibilities of those in the entertainment industry.
