Blake Lively, Baldoni’s co-star and the lead in the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestseller, has filed a lawsuit accusing Baldoni of harassment, boundary violations, and orchestrating a smear campaign. Here’s everything we know about the claims that have rocked the industry.

Unwanted Physical Advances

One of the most shocking allegations involves Baldoni improvising intimate scenes without Lively’s consent. The lawsuit claims he initiated unsanctioned kissing during takes, disregarding professional boundaries. This behavior, according to Lively, not only made her uncomfortable but also highlighted a lack of respect for established on-set protocols.

Inappropriate Discussions and Display of Explicit Material

Lively alleges that Baldoni frequently engaged in inappropriate conversations, including sharing personal details about his past experiences. These discussions reportedly created a hostile work environment. Additionally, the lawsuit claims Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath showed Lively and others explicit material, further contributing to the discomfort on set.

Repeated Invasion of Privacy

The lawsuit also details incidents of Baldoni and Heath entering Lively’s private spaces without permission. Allegedly, they walked into her makeup trailer on multiple occasions while she was in various stages of undress. These invasions of privacy were not only unprofessional but deeply unsettling for Lively, according to her complaint.

The Smear Campaign Allegation

Perhaps the most explosive claim in the lawsuit is that Baldoni orchestrated a deliberate smear campaign against Lively after she raised concerns. According to the legal documents, Baldoni hired crisis PR experts to manipulate public perception, plant negative stories, and tarnish her reputation. The alleged goal? To protect his image and discredit Lively.

WME Drops Justin Baldoni

The fallout has been swift. Baldoni’s talent agency, WME, severed ties with him shortly after the allegations surfaced. This move underscores the gravity of the situation and reflects the industry’s growing intolerance for misconduct. Losing representation from a major agency is a significant blow to Baldoni’s career.

Colleen Hoover and Public Backlash

Amid the controversy, Colleen Hoover, the author of It Ends With Us, publicly expressed her support for Blake Lively. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Hoover praised Lively for her honesty and integrity, further solidifying public sympathy for the actress. The lawsuit has sparked widespread discussions about workplace dynamics and the treatment of women in Hollywood.

Justin Baldoni’s Defense

Baldoni’s legal team has denied all allegations, calling them “categorically false” and part of a calculated effort to damage his reputation. In a statement to the press, his lawyers described the lawsuit as a desperate attempt to shift blame for Lively’s supposed difficulties during the film’s promotion. However, the mounting evidence and testimonies have only intensified scrutiny.

What’s Next?

As the lawsuit unfolds, the impact on both Lively’s and Baldoni’s careers remains uncertain. For Lively, this legal battle could reinforce her reputation as a strong advocate for accountability in the industry. For Baldoni, the allegations could mark a turning point in how Hollywood handles misconduct allegations involving prominent figures.

Final Thoughts

The allegations against Justin Baldoni are a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring safe and respectful workplaces in Hollywood. As more details come to light, the industry will be forced to confront its standards and practices. For now, the focus remains on the voices speaking up and the changes their courage can inspire.

Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.