Justin Baldoni Misses Deadline to Appeal Dismissal of Countersuit Against Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds

The high-profile legal war between “It Ends With Us” co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has reached a pivotal moment. Baldoni’s $400 million defamation and extortion countersuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and The New York Times has effectively ended. According to Reuters, the actor and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, missed a critical court deadline to appeal the case’s dismissal.

Justin Baldoni’s Countersuit Meets a Procedural End

Judge Lewis J. Liman originally dismissed the case in June. Court documents show Baldoni and his legal team failed to file an amended complaint by the established deadline. They were also given until October 17 to respond to a court order but did not do so.

This procedural failure brings a significant part of the legal dispute to a close. However, Baldoni retains the right to appeal the final judgment. This can happen after the court rules on Lively’s request to recoup her substantial legal fees from the case.

Blake Lively’s Original Lawsuit Proceeds Toward Trial

While Baldoni’s countersuit has stalled, the core legal battle is far from over. Lively’s original lawsuit against him is still active and moving forward. She alleges Baldoni engaged in sexually harassing behavior on set and then hired a crisis PR expert to tarnish her reputation.

Baldoni has consistently denied all allegations. The trial for Lively’s lawsuit is currently scheduled for March 2026. This ensures the Hollywood dispute will remain in the public eye for the foreseeable future.

The legal filings from both sides present starkly different narratives. This has captivated industry observers and the public alike. The case highlights ongoing conversations about power dynamics and accountability in the entertainment industry.

The resolution of Baldoni’s countersuit marks a significant development in this complex legal saga, but the core allegations from Blake Lively ensure this Hollywood drama is far from over.

Dropping this nugget your way

What was Justin Baldoni’s lawsuit about?

Justin Baldoni filed a $400 million countersuit. He accused Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and The New York Times of defamation and civil extortion. A judge dismissed the case, and Baldoni missed the deadline to appeal.

Is Blake Lively still suing Justin Baldoni?

Yes, Blake Lively’s original lawsuit is proceeding. She alleges sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign. The trial is set for March 2026, according to initial court schedules.

What is the status of the legal battle now?

Baldoni’s countersuit has effectively ended due to a missed filing deadline. Lively’s separate lawsuit for sexual harassment and retaliation remains active and is heading toward a trial date in 2026.

How did The New York Times get involved?

The newspaper published a detailed report on the allegations, citing Lively’s initial complaint. Baldoni subsequently named the outlet in his now-dismissed $400 million lawsuit, alleging libel.

What happens next in the case?

The court will rule on Lively’s request for legal fees from the dismissed countersuit. Meanwhile, both legal teams will continue preparations for the March 2026 trial centered on Lively’s allegations.