Blake Lively Denies Extortion Claim in Justin Baldoni Legal Dispute

Blake Lively Denies “Extortion” Claims as Legal Battle with Justin Baldoni Intensifies.Blake Lively has publicly refuted new claims from Justin Baldoni’s camp. Her representative slammed allegations made by Baldoni’s former agent in a recent deposition. The legal dispute stems from their collaboration on the 2024 film “It Ends With Us.” A trial is now scheduled for March 2026.Lively’s team calls the accusations a “recycled distraction.” They emphasize the case involves serious claims of sexual harassment and retaliation. The court has already dismissed several of Baldoni’s counter-claims.

New Allegations Surface in Ongoing Hollywood Dispute

The new controversy centers on a deposition from Danny Greenberg. Greenberg was Baldoni’s agent at WME before the agency dropped him. He alleged Lively engaged in “continued extortion” to gain control of the film.According to People, Greenberg later clarified his statement. He said he did not mean criminal extortion. He was referencing behavior the studio had to “manage” from Lively. Lively’s representative strongly denied this characterization.The legal battle began in December 2024. Lively filed a civil complaint against Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios. She alleged sexual harassment on set and a retaliatory smear campaign.

Wider Fallout and Industry Impact

The case has created significant waves in Hollywood. Baldoni was dropped by his talent agency, WME, shortly after the initial allegations became public. Several co-stars and the novel’s author, Colleen Hoover, publicly voiced support for Lively.According to Reuters, such public legal battles between co-stars are rare. They can impact future collaborations and studio partnerships. The case highlights ongoing issues around on-set behavior and power dynamics.The outcome could influence how studios handle similar internal conflicts. It also underscores the risks of public disputes in the entertainment industry.

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The legal confrontation continues as both sides prepare for a 2026 trial. The Blake Lively Justin Baldoni lawsuit remains a closely watched case, with significant implications for Hollywood accountability and workplace conduct.

Info at your fingertips

What is the main issue in the lawsuit?

Blake Lively alleges sexual harassment and retaliation from Justin Baldoni and his production company. Baldoni denies these claims and has filed counter-allegations.

When is the trial scheduled to begin?

The trial for Lively’s lawsuit is currently set for March 2026. A status hearing is planned for later this month.

Has anyone else supported Lively’s claims?

Yes. Co-stars Jenny Slate and Brandon Sklenar have publicly expressed their support for Lively following her initial complaint.

What was the “extortion” comment about?

Baldoni’s former agent used the term in a deposition. He later clarified it referred to Lively’s cumulative behavior, not a criminal act, which Lively’s team vehemently denies.

What happened to Baldoni’s countersuit?

A judge dismissed Baldoni’s $400 million countersuit against Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and others in June 2025. The judge found the claims failed to prove defamation or civil extortion.