A judge has scheduled a trial date for the high-profile legal dispute between actress Blake Lively and filmmaker Justin Baldoni. The trial is set to begin on March 9, 2026, in New York. This date marks a significant milestone in a complex case that involves allegations of sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign.
The lawsuit stems from their collaboration on the 2024 film adaptation of “It Ends With Us.” Lively alleges misconduct by Baldoni on set, while he claims her accusations are part of a calculated effort to seize creative control.
Core Allegations and Counter-Lawsuits Define the Conflict
Lively initially filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department in December 2024. She alleged that Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, engaged in inappropriate behavior. The complaint also accused them of orchestrating a sophisticated online campaign against her after she raised concerns.
In response, Baldoni and his associates filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and others. They denied all allegations and claimed Lively was the one waging a smear campaign. This suit was later dismissed by a judge in June 2025, a decision Lively celebrated on social media.
A Wider Cast of Characters and a Dismissed Countersuit
The case has drawn in several other figures. Baldoni expanded his legal team, hiring attorney Alexandra Shapiro, who previously worked on Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense. Lively, in turn, hired Nick Shapiro, a former CIA deputy chief of staff, for crisis management.
The legal proceedings have been marked by dramatic motions. These included an attempt to subpoena Taylor Swift, which was later withdrawn. A judge dismissed Baldoni’s countersuit, stating his team failed to prove their defamation claims. The core lawsuit from Lively, however, continues to move forward toward the 2026 trial.
The legal confrontation between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni is now officially headed for a courtroom showdown. The 2026 trial will determine the outcome of these serious allegations that have captivated the entertainment industry.
Info at your fingertips
What is the trial date for the lawsuit?
The trial is scheduled to begin on March 9, 2026. The proceedings will take place in a New York federal court.
What are the main allegations in the case?
Blake Lively has accused Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment and of orchestrating a retaliatory smear campaign. Baldoni has denied these claims and alleged that Lively engaged in a calculated effort to control the film.
Was Taylor Swift involved in the legal battle?
Baldoni’s legal team briefly sought to subpoena Taylor Swift, suggesting she supported Lively’s push for creative control. Swift’s representative stated she was only involved by licensing a song for the film and was not deposed.
What was the outcome of Baldoni’s countersuit?
A judge dismissed Baldoni’s $400 million countersuit against Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and others in June 2025. The judge found the suit failed to prove its allegations of defamation and civil extortion.
Has Blake Lively been deposed?
Yes, Lively sat for a deposition in July 2025. Reports indicated that Baldoni and other defendants were present in the room with their attorneys during her testimony.
Trusted Sources: E! News, The New York Times, People, Variety, NBC News, Associated Press.
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