A prominent celebrity attorney has revealed to Newsweek why Justin Baldoni might have no option but to countersue Lively in response to her harassment claims.

The Legal Sparks

Blake Lively filed a formal complaint with the California Civil Rights Department in December 2024, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign. This followed months of rumors about a strained relationship between the two during the filming of It Ends With Us, a movie Baldoni directed and co-starred in. Baldoni has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “intentionally salacious.”

Why Baldoni Might Countersue

Wayne Dennison, the attorney who represented Johnny Depp in his defamation case, told Newsweek that Baldoni could feel compelled to file a countersuit to defend his reputation. “Baldoni’s lawyers have hinted at the possibility of a suit against Lively. Whether it materializes remains to be seen,” Dennison said. He added, “Litigating multiple lawsuits against well-funded opponents is expensive, but Baldoni may have no choice if he wants to avoid career-ending fallout.”

Baldoni has already filed a defamation lawsuit against The New York Times over its coverage of the situation, further complicating his legal landscape.

Lively’s Stance

Blake Lively has remained steadfast in her claims, stating that her legal action aims to expose systemic issues in Hollywood. She alleged that Baldoni’s actions created a toxic on-set environment, adding that she hopes her case will “pull back the curtain on sinister retaliatory tactics.”

Lively’s complaint has garnered public support, including a statement from Colleen Hoover, the author of the book that inspired the film. Hoover praised Lively’s courage, calling her “an incredible human being.”

What’s at Stake?

If Justin Baldoni does countersue, it could lead to a public unmasking of Hollywood’s often-hidden disputes. Industry insiders suggest the case may reveal the unvarnished reality of how power dynamics and public relations shape celebrity careers.

Meanwhile, the California Civil Rights Department continues to evaluate Lively’s complaint. If validated, it could launch an independent investigation, adding another layer to the legal drama.

The Bigger Picture

This feud isn’t just about two celebrities—it highlights the intricate web of workplace culture, reputation management, and legal battles in Hollywood. As the saga unfolds, it could set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially influencing industry practices.